IV Siesta Sand - November 2018 by Brion Palmer

Why the world comes to Sarasota

Do you own rental property on Siesta Key? Be a partner, your guests will get 50% off!

NOVEMBER 2018 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

CRYSTAL CLASSIC

County property in the path of proposed dredging? By Rachel Brown Hackney

The 2018 Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival November 9-12

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CHRISTMAS PARADE Light Up Siesta Key & Village Holiday Parade Saturday November 24

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ST. BONIFACE In 2019, Saint Boniface Church, on Midnight Pass Road, will be celebrating its 65th year

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This summer, Siesta Key Association (SKA) Vice President Catherine Luckner first raised questions about property owned by Sarasota County in Big Sarasota Pass that is known as Sand Dollar Island. She and her husband, Robert, who is a member of the SKA’s Environmental Committee, spent some time researching the background of the property. Now Catherine Luckner is seeking information from Sarasota County staff about whether the 598,454-square-foot parcel in the pass might be in an area (Cut B or Cut C) from which the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposes to dredge sand for the long-term renourishment of South Lido Key Beach. As she pointed out in an Oct. 11 email to county staff members, the 1954 title, deeding the property to the county, restricts its use to public recreation. She further noted that the island is zoned Open Use Conservation (OUC), and zoning guidelines for that district do not allow the mining of sand. Continued on page 15

The Beach Club Hurricane Michael Supply Drive

SMITH WEDDING

After Hurricane Michael made landfall on October 10th, Todd Carter, the General Manager at Beach Club knew they had the power to do something to help. The Beach Club partnered with Chaney Brothers Incorporated who donated a semi-truck to haul all of our donations to the areas most effected by Hurricane Michael. Todd, with the help of his management team, created a Hurricane Michael Supply Drive event through The Beach Club’s Facebook page that quickly took off, with over 100 shares within 24 hours. The Beach Club, which is a part of Above The Bar Hospitality Group, has been collecting donations since October 13th and now has tens of thousands of dollars of donations ready to go to Mexico Beach, Florida. Local businesses such as Beachside Villas, Liberty Run Benefits, The Ringling Beach House, and Rhea Lana’s of Sarasota also chipped in donating children’s gear, diapers, cleaning supplies and food by the truck load. Thank you to all the local partners!! Photo submitted by Katie Spelman/Operational Assistant for The Beach Club.

With a soft Gulf breeze stirring the air and gentle waves lapping against the powder white sands of Siesta Key beach, the beautiful wedding of Esther and Mark unfolded

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Is Sand Dollar Island part of the proposed dredging area in Big Pass? The Key is located near Siesta Key Chapel.

SIESTA SOUNDS

Attorney warns that county staff has not followed county procedure for approving Critical Area Plan designation Benderson seeks for Siesta Promenade By Rachel Brown Hackney Three may not be enough to call a flock, but this trio of musicians is enough to make a tribe… The Bird Tribe page

SAND CASTLES

Serene and perfectly located at Sandy Cove

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In January 2017, a Sarasota County resident with years of expertise as a planning board member and a consultant who served as a senior Sarasota County planner for 22 years first raised an issue about Siesta Promenade that never has been addressed.

In August 2016, Benderson Development Co. filed papers with the county’s Planning and Development Services Department staff, outlining its proposal for the mixed-use project at the northwest corner of Stickney Point Road and U.S. 41. To enable the firm to build up to

Happiness is…Discovering New Things

picked up paddle boarding and beachWhat’s your favorite hobby? Is it combing. And Jill loves watching the a water sport? Collecting? Cycling? area wildlife, especially the variety of Concerts? Photography? birds.” Do you remember the feeling you “All the wildlife except for the got when you first discovered it? random alligators,” she added with a Well, the snowbirds are rolling in to laugh. “They’re interesting…from a town for the season and, of course, distance.” the weather is one big reason why. What things draw you here? Or But many of them will be looking for new and interesting things to see and Jerry and Jill, owners keep you here? If you could share one do. Maybe even a new hobby of their of Abel’s Ice Cream, experience or hobby with us when you at their first beach drop by for your next ice cream treat, own. wedding what would you most recommend? For Jerry Williams, owner of Abel’s Oh, and speaking of new things, Jerry and Ice Cream, his favorite pastime is playing golf. “Coming from the Midwest, there was a definite Jill wanted to make sure you know that Abel’s golf season, and then a definite no-golf season. Ice Cream now has non-dairy flavors! Yes, you No one wants to dig their ball out of snow or read that right. They’re really excited to be able ice,” he joked. “I love being able to play year- to serve yet another dietary group with the best round here.” But that doesn’t mean he spends of the best! Their first two non-dairy flavors are all his free time on the course. “Jill and I have Coconut Almond Fudge and Coffee Almond

600 condominiums/apartments — as initially announced — the company applied for a Critical Area Plan (CAP) designation for the project. That would allow it to construct 25 dwelling units per acre. Continued on page 4

5 years straight! Fudge. Both are certain to please even the most discerning pallets. They’re also continuing their celebration of fall for just a little longer with Carrot Cake (you can stop baking, this is the ultimate Carrot Cake recipe...Carrot Cake ice cream with fresh walnuts and a thick ribbon of cream cheese frosting.) and Maple Walnut (Sweet Maple ice cream loaded with walnuts.) If you haven’t tried these two, they recommend that you get them through October before they’re gone until next year. Stop in and visit a bit and enjoy one of these treats, or any of their amazing flavors. Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more online at our website, www. abelsicecream.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram.

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

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H H H NOVEMBER SALE ITEMS H H H

Products may vary in store. Not responsible for typographical or printing errors. Prices valid 11/1/18 – 11/30/18

EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE Postal Service In All Locations Packing Supplies • Hallmark Cards • Beach Supplies • Large Upscale Gift Dept

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Letter to the Editor

SSOSS2 needs your help

|Understanding two of the County Charter Amendments on the November ballot

SAVE OUR SIESTA SANDS 2 (SOSS2) is launching a special matching funds drive as part of the National Giving Challenge. Dollars raised will pay for the expert witnesses to be called in the Federal lawsuit filed by SOSS2 to stop the Army Corps of Engineering from dredging Big Pass and the shoal that protects Siesta Key.

Reopen Beach Road, Inc. (RBR) would like to thank the publishers for allowing us to explain the two County Charter Amendments we sponsored that will be appearing on the November ballot. But first, a little historical context... After decades of rampant overdevelopment, the State of Florida passed The Community Planning Act of 1985, requiring every County to create a Comprehensive Plan as a roadmap to guide its future growth. Recognizing that our property values, local business revenues, and tourist tax revenues are directly related and proportional to public beach and water access, Parks Policy, Chapter 3, Section 1.1.13 was enacted, which states, “ The County shall not vacate road segments on waterfronts along any creek, river, lake, bay, or gulf access point, and shall encourage right of way use of these areas for coastal beach and bay access.” Shockingly, despite this requirement, Sarasota County abandoned Siesta Key’s Beach Road. At deposition, Sarasota’s Director of Environmental Permitting, Howard Berna, admitted that this section of Beach Road is a road segment, on a waterfront, along a gulf access point. Hmmm… In a July 2015 email he also said, “… the purpose of the street vacation is to obtain the total lot square footage required to achieve the applicant’s (developers’) desired outcome…”, and, “The County currently has full access of the existing street rightof-way for public access (motorized and pedestrian), emergency services, and public utilities...” Finally, he said, “it does not appear to be in the County’s best interest to relinquish these rights or limit them by creating any form of easement document.” Double Hmmm… Clearly, the County violated this Comprehensive Plan provision by abandoning public ownership and control of Beach Road as a public right of way. The revocable easement we now have severely curtails the public’s rights in perpetuity. Several months later, the County changed

the language of Section 1.1.13 from, “the County shall not vacate…” to “the County should not vacate…” This seemingly insignificant change now allows the County to abandon any and all of our beach and water accesses; it also takes away the public’s opportunity to legally challenge such actions. Thankfully, RBR’s proposed Amendments solve this debacle… The first Amendment’s purpose is to keep Beach Road in public ownership and control, as it’s been for over 100 years. It also compels the County to follow the taxpayer-funded advice of County and independent engineers by restoring Beach Road to its “intended use” as a waterfront thoroughfare. Further, it requires the County to ensure this area is accessible to our elderly and mobility impaired citizens, and forces the County to stop ignoring federally mandated requirements regarding access to those who cannot traverse the sand covered mess they have allowed Beach Road to become. Taylor Engineering’s report clearly demonstrates that implementation of these changes to Beach Road would create an amazing public amenity and save taxpayers $4,000,000.00, all while enhancing sea-turtle nesting habitats and safety… The second Amendment is crucial protective legislation that prevents every Park, Preserve, Beach and Water Access – county wide- from being given away or sold by the County. State law mandates certain Levels of Service (“LOS”) for public lands (Parks, Beach Access, etc.) by requiring counties to maintain public lands based on population. More people means that more public lands must be made available. Given our ever-increasing population, we feel the most fiscally prudent way to meet our future LOS obligations is to first stop giving away the property we already own. Please vote “YES” on each Amendment. Respectfully, Mike Cosentino, President Reopen Beach Road, Inc.

Where: St. Boniface Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road, Parish Hall, Siesta Key When: Nov. 27the 5-7pm Jono Miller, celebrated environmentalist and speaker will address why maintaining the shoal and Big Pass is critical to Siesta Key’s environmental future. Information

Siesta Key Association seeking board members The Siesta Key Association (SKA) is comprised of citizens, who have a vested interest in preserving and protecting the quality of life offered by our beautiful Island. A Board of volunteer Directors, all of whom live or own property on Siesta Key, manages this non-profit civic Association. The Board of Directors has a rich tradition

will be available on the damage the ACOE permitted dredge could have on the Siesta Key economy and property values. How can this SOSS2 Federal suit to stop the dredge be successful when the first step in the legal process, an Administrative Hearing, did not succeed? The Administrative Hearing required SOSS2 and Siesta Key Association to prove the dredge would cause damage to Siesta. Demonstrating that the Army Corps predictive tools used to conclude ‘no harm to Siesta” were seriously flawed, not state of the art and failed to even consider wave action and the impact of weather events, were not sufficient. This Federal lawsuit is based on the violations to Federal law and the Army Corps failure to do a full environmental impact statement. of representing and pro-actively lobbying for the rights of the citizens of Siesta Key dating back well over 70 years in November. In today’s environment of growth, it is becoming ever more critical to have an active body that represents the interest of all residential property owners on Siesta Key. SKA is seeking new board members that will be active in all facets of the Association. If you are interested in becoming a board member contact SKA at 941-364-4880 • info@siestakeyassociation.com

Another sensational Siesta Key sunset! Photo by Donnarose Melvin

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

Siesta Promenade The county’s Commercial General Zoning District provides for up to 13 dwelling units per acre. Later, Benderson revised its plans to call for 414 condominiums/apartments. Still, the current zoning for most of the approximately 24 acres of the Siesta Promenade site would allow only up to 300 mobile homes, Todd Mathes, director of development for Benderson, explained to about 110 people packed into the Parish Hall of St. Boniface Episcopal Church for the June 2, 2016 meeting of the Siesta Key Association. The company also has proposed a 130room hotel — with each room counting as half a dwelling unit — plus 133,000 square feet of retail space and up to 7,000 square feet of office space. Both Sura Kochman, leader of the Pine Shores Neighborhood Alliance — who has had years of planning board experience in New Jersey — and Brian Lichterman, the former county planner, have explained that establishing the boundary for a CAP should be the first step in the process for an applicant to win approval for that CAP designation. In an interview on Jan. 25, 2017, Lichterman explained that the purpose of establishing that boundary is to insure that all of the important changes a proposed development will bring to a specific area

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Continued from cover page

will be addressed. The boundary not only is intended to encompass the area of the project, he pointed out, but also the most affected surrounding areas. Yet, Benderson Development has sought a CAP boundary that just circles its site at Stickney Point Road and U.S. 41, Lichterman said. During a Jan. 25, 2017 County Commission discussion focusing on the scope of work for the Siesta Promenade CAP application, Lichterman told the board, “I’m here to respectfully but strongly urge you to significantly expand the boundaries.” A failure to look at all four quadrants of the Stickney Point Road/U.S. 41 intersection as part of the CAP boundary for Siesta Promenade, Lichterman said, “is like looking through a hole in a wooden fence: You’re not seeing the whole picture.” “This is a critically important, regional intersection,” Lichterman stressed. When she addressed the commissioners, Kochman, a Pine Shores resident who has lived part- or full-time in the county for the past 60 years, held up a copy of what she called the “flow chart” designed to lead to approval of a CAP. “It clearly notes that there should be a decision by the commissioners on a CAP boundary before the application can proceed,” she said. Pine Shores Estates abuts the Siesta Promenade site.

Yet, with the first public hearing on Benderson’s petitions for Siesta Promenade set to be heard by the county’s Planning Commission on Nov. 15, nothing has been done to resolve the CAP issue, Kochman pointed out. The County Commission has set aside its entire Dec. 12 meeting for a public hearing on the Benderson applications. Representing the Best Western Plus Siesta Key Gateway Hotel, which is located at 6600 S. Tamiami Trail — close to the Siesta Promenade site — Sarasota attorney Morgan Bentley of Bentley & Bruning wrote a letter to Deputy County Attorney Alan W. Roddy on Sept. 12 regarding the CAP issue. Roddy typically represents the Office of the County Attorney during hearings related to issues such as rezonings and Critical Area Plans. He was present on Jan. 25, 2017 when the commission approved a scope of work for the Siesta Promenade process, which included an analysis of traffic on the roadways and at the intersections in close proximity to the project site. In the first paragraph of his Sept. 12 letter, Bentley pointed out that “what are usually housekeeping matters” may, in this case, “be much more important from both a procedural standpoint and substantively for the parties involved.” Bentley then explained that during an

Aug. 23 Neighborhood Workshop on the Siesta Promenade — which was required under county guidelines before the public hearings could be held — county staff “indicated that the CAP Boundary, the Scope of Work review, the CAP itself, the rezonings that may arise out of the CAP, two Special Exceptions (height and density) and one street vacation affecting Pine Shores Estates are all going to be heard as one hearing.” Bentley added, “While it often makes some sense to do similar requests all at once, here I submit that procedure will cause more, rather than fewer, problems.” Then Bentley pointed out that the County Commission “has not yet adopted the CAP Boundary. If they choose to expand the Boundary (as we believe they should), then the rest of the issues become moot. Moreover, that discussion alone could take substantial time as there are arguments to be made on both sides of the issue and undoubtedly many people will want to be heard on that alone.” He continued, “Further, to make that decision, the Commission will necessarily need to review the responses to the Scope of work it approved on January 25, 2017. It has not seen those responses as yet, much less determined if the responses are satisfactory.”

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Siesta Promenade expected to generate 8,379 more vehicle trips per day, with 781 more vehicles on the road during peak afternoon drive time By Rachel Brown Hackney Sarasota County Transportation Planning staff expects the proposed Siesta Promenade mixed-use project at the northwest intersection of Stickney Point Road and U.S. 41 to generate 8,379 new vehicle trips per day. That information is part of a county Development Review Committee (DRC) from county Planning and Development Services Department staff. Just during the afternoon peak drive time, 781 more vehicles would be expected in the vicinity of the development, the report notes. The DRC report is the latest material released by staff as the county’s Planning Commission prepares for the first public hearing on Siesta Promenade. That is scheduled for the evening of Nov. 15. The County Commission has set aside a full day for its public hearing: Dec. 12. County Media Relations Specialist Brianne Grant reported in an Oct. 15 email that planning staff is continuing to work on its recommendations for the Planning

Commission meeting. In the most recent materials it filed with the county, Benderson Development says it wants to construct 414 multi-family units and a 130-room hotel, plus 140,000 square feet of office/retail space on approximately 24 acres on the site of a former mobile home park at the northwest corner of the U.S. 41/ Stickney Point Road intersection. The company does not expect the buildout of the project to be completed until 2024 — if Siesta Promenade, as proposed, wins County Commission approval. Therefore, the DRC report says, staff also looked at the levels of service on roadway segments in the vicinity of the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road. The DRC report explains that on Oct. 11, 2016, the County Commission approved a scope of work for the Critical Area Plan (CAP) designation Benderson is seeking for Siesta Promenade. (Approval of that CAP petition would allow the company a maximum of 25 dwelling units per acre, instead of the 9 units per

acre allowed under the current zoning. With standard Commercial General zoning, no more than 13 dwelling units per acre would be permitted.) The scope of work included a number of intersections, as well as roadway segments. The 2024 total traffic conditions indicate that those roadway segments “are operating at or above the adopted level of service standard,” the Transportation Planning comments note in the DRC review of the CAP application. (“Level of service” refers to a driver’s perception about how smoothly traffic is flowing in a given area, with A being the best level.) The DRC report does point out that certain intersection improvements would be needed. Among them would be construction of additional westbound, southbound and northbound left-turn lanes at the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road. The report also suggests modifying the westbound approach at U.S. 41 and Constitution Boulevard from a shared left-

turn/through lane and a right-turn lane to an exclusive left-turn lane and a shared through/right-turn lane. The report explains that even though Kimley-Horn proposed the additional left-turn lanes “at all approaches of the intersection of US 41 and Stickney Point Road,” those improvements are not feasible because of right of way limitations and the county’s plan to add bicycle lanes on U.S. 41 south of Stickney Point Road. “Acquiring right of way would require extensive business takings per the Florida Department of Transportation’s (FDOT’s) response to Kimley-Horn, dated June 1, 2018,” the report points out. Kimley-Horn also recommended signal re-timing for two of the intersections within the study area, along the U.S. 41 corridor, the report continues, but FDOT staff already has said the department would not conduct re-timing specifically for a project; FDOT undertakes re-timing initiatives on a periodic basis.

Continued from the previous page

“Given the procedural posture, it seems the better procedure would be to follow the CAP Ordinance and approve the Boundary after reviewing the response to the Scope of Work, then at a separate hearing, consider whatever rezonings the Applicant (or Applicants, if the Boundary expands) may seek inside the CAP,” he added. Bentley received no response from Roddy, as Kochman pointed out in an Oct. 2 press release. In response to a Siesta Sand request for comment from county staff, Media Relations Officer Drew Winchester wrote, “The letter was copied to board members and forwarded to planning staff for inclusion during the public hearing record.” Another try Bentley followed up with another letter on Sept.

17. It provided details about CAPs, which — he noted — “serve as a bridge between the broader characteristics of the county’s Comprehensive Plan and the specific details of the zoning and land development regulations …” He pointed out that the process “allows the County to provide specific recommendations for the development of a geographic area to help ensure that it is developed in a coordinated way and is compatible with the surrounding neighborhoods and consistent with the goals, objectives and policies of the county’s Comprehensive Plan.” One primary intention with a CAP, he noted, is avoiding “piecemeal decision making.” He received no response to that letter, either, Kochman said in the news release.

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VOTE YES!!!!

FINALLY WE CAN VOTE TO KEEP BEACH ROAD PUBLIC AND PROTECT ALL OF OUR PUBLIC LAND!!!!

TOP RIGHT OF BACK PAGE!!!! CHARTER AMENDMENT TO REACQUIRE AND RETAIN SIESTA KEY BEACH ROAD AS PUBLIC RIGHT OF WAY THE COUNTY VACATED AN APPROXIMATELY 373-FOOT-LONG PORTION OF BEACH ROAD ON SIESTA KEY IN 2016, WHICH HAD BEEN CLOSED FOR SOME TIME. THE VACATED PORTION OF BEACH ROAD IS ACCESSIBLE BY ALL MEANS, INCLUDING PEDESTRIAN, BUT NOT INCLUDING MOTORIZED VEHICLES. SHALL THE CHARTER BE AMENDED TO REQUIRE THE COUNTY TO REACQUIRE THIS PORTION OF BEACH ROAD, AND REOPEN IT FOR VEHICULAR TRAFFIC, AS WELL AS NEVER VACATE IT IN THE FUTURE.

CHARTER AMENDMENT TO PRESERVE COUNTY-OWNED PARKS, PRESERVES, BEACH AND WATER ACCESS AND WATERFRONT VISTAS PRESENTLY, THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS, AS PROVIDED BY GENERAL LAW, HAS THE AUTHORITY TO SELL ANY COUNTY-OWNED PROPERTY AND TO VACATE ROADS AND RIGHTS OF WAY. SHALL THE CHARTER BE AMENDED TO PROHIBIT THE COUNTY FROM SELLING OR GIVING AWAY COUNTY-OWNED PARKS AND PRESERVES, AND TO PREVENT THE COUNTY FROM VACATING ANY ROAD SEGMENTS OR RIGHTS OF WAY ABUTTING ANY BEACH, RIVER, CREEK, CANAL, LAKE, BAY, GULF ACCESS OR WATERFRONT VISTA.

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New FPL pole criticized During the Oct. 4 SKA meeting, President Gene Kusekoski reported that “a more aesthetically inclined member” of the organization had notified him that Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL) has installed a new concrete utility pole near the intersection of Columbus Boulevard and Avenida Veneccia. The member called it “out of place” in the island landscape and questioned the need for it, Kusekoski added. An FPL representative told Kusekoski, he continued, that the new pole was necessary for two reasons: better hurricane

Island Chatter

resistance and to upgrade the power system in that part of the Key. “And, hence, you have the big chunky cement pole,” Kusekoski told the SKA audience. The FPL representative did suggest to Kusekoski that if members of that neighborhood on the Key wanted to “personally pay to get lines buried underground, FPL would be happy to do that.” The FPL rep cautioned, though, that the wait for the work probably would be a long one, Kusekoski indicated. “Maybe we can get an artist to decorate the chunky poles,” he added.

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Staff Report

Another crash; this time, on Ocean Boulevard A vehicle crashed in the curve on the north end of Ocean Boulevard right around 11 p.m. on Oct. 7, Siesta Sand learned from Michael Shay, the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp. manager. Shay said he did not see any skid marks. It just looked as though the vehicle kept on going straight instead of staying on the road in the bend just north of the Gleason Avenue turnoff for Siesta Key Chapel. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office report on the incident says a Lexus ES 350 sedan had to be towed from the scene, with damage estimated at $15,000. The owner of the vehicle was identified as Karina Violeta Daza, 24, of 7319 52nd Drive E. in Bradenton. She was not injured, according to the report, and she refused medical attention. The estimated speed of the vehicle in the curve was 45 mph, though the speed limit is 35 mph, the report added. Daza was not suspected of having

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consumed an alcoholic beverage before the crash, the Sheriff’s Office report said, and the box referring to whether the driver was distracted said she was not. The narrative noted that Daza “was driving too fast and missed the turn.” On one positive note, Shay wrote in his email, “the retaining wall at the house was NOT damaged this time, but most of the owners’ plantings were destroyed!”

It was just a matter of time, Shay pointed out, before another crash would occur in that location. Siesta Sand has heard tales through the years about homeowners who live near that curve being awakened at night by loud noises from drivers slamming into the wall or swerving into the ditch. In response to a question, Lisa Cece, the special district coordinator for the county, who oversees maintenance issues on the Key, wrote in an Oct. 12 email, “We get hit and run damage all over the County, and must repost any roadway items. The Sheriff’s Office report estimated the total amount of damage was $1,000, split evenly between the guardrail and the sign.

New date for the November Siesta Key Association The Siesta Key Association announced that the November meeting has been delayed by one week. Continued on page 29

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

Sheriff’s Report

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September 18-October 22, 2018

There were a total of 13 crimes reported on the Key between 9/18-10/22/18 9/19/18 Burglary –Residence 1000 block Contento St. A man reported an unknown person entered his locked residence and removed a $24,000 check from his wallet and $4,000 US and $1,000 Swiss Francs from his safe. The complainant believes he knows the suspect who possibly committed the crime but admitted that several other people had been in his residence. He believes the suspect learned the safe code by watching him open it. No fingerprints were discovered on the safe. A stop payment was issued for the check and a new one was issued to the complainant. The officer noted that the wallet that contained the check had $2,400 cash in it that was not taken. No surveillance cameras were in use at the time. 9/23/18 Burglary- Vehicle 9100 block Midnight Pass Rd. A woman investigating a noise coming from outside her house saw three or four unknown suspects walking Southbound on Midnight Pass. They were crossing the road several times as if going from house to house. She reported they all looked less than 20 years old. She noted that the center console, glove box and center ashtray in her unlocked car had been opened. The driver door of her vehicle was open and the dome light was illuminated when she arrived. No items were discovered missing at the time. The vehicle was successfully processed for fingerprints. Another officer detained one of the suspects, a juvenile, as the responding officer was en route to the scene. 9/23/18 Burglary- Vehicle 9200 Block Midnight Pass Rd. The juvenile from the above referenced incident was detained and arrested after being caught with stolen items. An officer was responding in reference to a nearby vehicle burglary in progress. He observed the defendant walking across Midnight Pass with visible items in his pockets. The suspect immediately threw a Michael Kors wallet on the ground and admitted to burglarizing the vehicle. He also pulled ear buds and an Orange Theory heart monitor out of his pocket and threw them on the ground. The officer also found the

victim’s purse in a nearby parking lot. The victim stated she wished to press charges and the juvenile was arrested and taken to jail. 9/24/18 Grand Theft 5200 Block Ocean Blvd. A woman reported her IPhone 8 Plus was stolen from a Village bar. The woman and her daughter were sitting at the bar listening to the band. Around midnight the woman left her phone on the bar while she went to the restroom but forgot to tell her daughter to keep an eye on it. When she returned her phone was gone. It was valued at $1100. 9/25/18 Grand Theft 5800 Block Midnight Pass A woman reported she and an acquaintance were arguing the night before when the acquaintance left the residence. He returned early the next morning, gathered his belongings and left. He also took the victim’s cell phone and house key. She was not able to locate the phone with the location feature. She did not wish to press charges at the time and signed a waiver of prosecution. 10/4/18 Theft Public Beach Two women were the victims of theft. They stated they were at the beach and left their purse and wallet with their belongings on the beach. Upon returning, they found it all gone. The missing items included credit cards, social security cards and drivers licenses. There were no suspects. 10/15/18 Possession of Marijuana, Controlled Substance, Narcotic Equipment, 4000 Block Shell Rd. /Access 1

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An officer on patrol noticed a car stopped halfway in the middle of the road and halfway in a parking space (prohibited 9:00 pm-6:00 am) facing Eastbound on North Shell Rd. The officer smelled marijuana immediately upon walking up to the car, as the window was open. He observed in plain view a marijuana blunt sitting in an ashtray. The driver explained he was trying to relax while smoking marijuana and talking to his baby’s mom (passenger). After handing the officer the blunt, he was asked to step outside the vehicle. The subject spontaneously stated that he also had meth and mushrooms inside his pocket. He was placed under arrest after turning over the drugs. 10/15/18 Possession of Marijuana, Controlled substance (2 counts), Narcotic Equipment 400 Block Shell Rd./Access 1 The passenger in the above mentioned vehicle was arrested for possession. A deputy had noticed a Taco Bell paper bag sitting on her lap. On top of the bag was a clear glass smoking device with white residue. The passenger also made spontaneous statements prior to the vehicle search that she had a couple more pipes, a marijuana grinder and meth inside a pouch inside the car. The passenger was asked to step out of the car and officers found the bag containing methamphetamine, a scale, glass smoking device with marijuana residue and THC oil. A plastic container was found that contained another grinder, a metal container with marijuana residue and a pack of rolling papers.

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NOVEMBER 2018

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Educating the public about how to reduce nitrogen in waterways a key to mitigating red tide blooms, former county commissioner says By Rachel Brown Hackney Education is perhaps the biggest key to mitigating red tide blooms, former Sarasota County Commissioner Jon Thaxton told about 45 people at the October Siesta Key Association (SKA) meeting. “I think ignorance is probably our greatest enemy in this fight,” he said. Thaxton acknowledged that he was one of the primary proponents of the county’s ban on nitrogen-based fertilizer use during the rainy season each year, as well as the force behind creation of the county’s Stormwater Utility, which was the first in the state. The nitrogen human beings add to the environment is one of the major feeders of the algae that causes red tide, Karenia brevis, he pointed out. In response to questions from audience members, Thaxton suggested that county staff could put notices in utility bills to remind customers each year of the nitrogen fertilizer ban from June through September. He called that a “really, really simple way to get the messaging out.” When one audience member questioned whether lawn care company employees adhere to the county’s ordinance, Thaxton replied, “I have less of a concern with the professionals than I do with the nonprofessionals.” People who are in the lawn care business have to take a course that explains the facets of the county’s regulations, he pointed out. Then he invited the audience members to visit a store such as Lowe’s or Home Depot and look at “these mountainous stacks of fertilizer.” If they went back four days later, all of it would be gone, he added, with homeowners primarily having been the purchasers. Thaxton said people think using more fertilizer is better, likening that to the rationale a person who feels poorly often utilizes: If one aspirin will help, “two pills

will make me feel great.” Yet, Thaxton explained, “Over-fertilizing actually harms the lawns.” Much better enforcement of county regulations would help with red tide, too, he continued. However, he cautioned that enforcement without education angers people and makes them even less likely to follow the rules. “Today, you will hear no state or local elected official looking to compromise the integrity of any rule, law or ordinance that protects our waterways,” he pointed out. Yet, when the Gulf of Mexico once again is clear, he added, efforts will resume to reduce pollution prevention. “As a community,” Thaxton said, “we need to remember the suffering that we have now. … This is a systemic, land-use created issue.” As a senior vice president for community investments with the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Thaxton reported, “We are already starting to see evictions and children missing school” because of the downturn in business resulting from national publicity about the current red tide bloom, which worsened this summer. In another 30 to 60 days, he added, he believes more families will lose their homes, as many people working in service industry jobs have lost income. “You have yet to see the economic impact of this red tide,” Thaxton said. If the current bloom subsides, and the area experiences no problems for the next three to four years, he predicted it would take that long for the economy to recover.

The feeding of the algae “Red tide is always in the Gulf of Mexico,” Thaxton explained. “The blooms come and go.” What makes them worse — such as the one Southwest Florida and the Panhandle

and Palm Beach County have experienced, he continued — is the nitrogen-rich water the algae feeds on as it comes near the shoreline. “If you have this toxic organism and you are now actually feeding it,” he said, the bloom “is now going to be significantly more intense” and cover a larger area of the coast. Some researchers believe that nitrogen from the decomposing fish killed by Karenia brevis also has been feeding the algae, Thaxton noted. Leaking septic tanks are a source of the nitrogen along with fertilizers, he pointed out. Robert Luckner, a member of the SKA’s Environmental Committee, noted that when the county won voter support in 2009 for the most recent penny tax to support a variety of infrastructure projects, about $20 million of the resulting revenue was to have been put toward new sewer systems to replace septic tanks. Yet, Luckner said, based on research he has undertaken, less than one-quarter of that money has been spent on that initiative since 2009. (In the 2019 fiscal year budget, which the County Commission adopted on Sept. 27, $32.5 million has been allocated to a variety of wastewater projects, including more septic tank replacements. In an update provided to the board during a May 25 budget workshop, staff proposed slightly less than $2.5 million just for the septic tank replacement program, with the funds coming out of surtax revenue and income from utility payments. The county has budgeted another $2,390,000 for stormwater projects. The fiscal year began on Oct. 1.) Unfortunately, Thaxton told Luckner, in the 1960s and 1970s, the county paid the “lion’s share” of the expense for new developments. It was cheaper to put in septic tanks, he continued, than to build sewer

Jon Thaxton systems. Although the federal government began providing funds in the 1970s for central sewer systems, Thaxton added, county leaders waited until the 1990s to “really aggressively begin removing septic tanks,” and by that time, the federal assistance had ceased. Thus, Thaxton said, county taxpayers and residents with septic tanks have had to bear most of the cost for the conversions to central sewer systems. County Commission Chair Nancy Detert recently told him, he said, that the allocation for such conversions in the county will end around 2020 or 2022, “and we still have a lot of septic tanks that are in the water table, which is really a shame.” In response to another question, Thaxton said that replacing the oldest septic tanks with central sewer systems would have “a huge impact. … All the barrier islands should be a priority area” for the endeavor, he added.

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Go Healthy – Go Organic Being on vacation doesn’t mean you can’t eat healthy, especially when it comes to the sweeter things in life. Made In Rome Organic Gelato uses all organic ingredients and offers sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan options. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another gelateria in all of Florida were only organic ingredients are used. Did you know? Because of gelato’s thick texture and intense flavor you may feel the need to dial back the portion size, but don’t. Surprisingly, it actually tends to be lower in fat, sugar and calories than ice cream which contains anywhere between 10 to 25 percent fat. Gelato on the other hand stays around four to nine percent. By using more milk than cream, no egg yolks, along with a slow-churn process, your taste buds will be doing a happy dance with the intense flavors and silky textures this low calorie option provides. Of course, there are plenty of flavors to try and the staff at Made In Rome Organic Gelato generously provide samples of their house made gelato where a new flavor is produced every 15 minutes, and as their name implies, all ingredients used are organic. No hydrogenated fats or colorants, or preservatives are ever used. Some of the fall flavors to try are Matcha Latte, Pumpkin Spice latte, Cinnamon Roll and Midnight Phantom. Vegans rejoice Yes vegans, come on in because Made In Rome Organic Gelato is vegan friendly offering a selection of gelato, cones, shakes, and how about a vegan affogato al caffe? Whether you choose vegan-friendly or not, the affogato al caffe; a double shot of espresso topped with a scoop of gelato…any flavor, continues to be a customer favorite. Says owner, Diane Theron-Cuna, “People go crazy for this!” Owners Diane Theron-Cuna and husband, Massimo enjoy showing off the method used to construct their gelato. They invite you to watch the process as they create a batch of their sinfully delicious gelato. Theron-Cuna’s former career is fascinating, having no connection to her current business. She comes from a family of circus performers and has traveled around the world performing with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The

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family even has their own “Star of Fame” at St. Armands Circle - The Theron Cycling Troupe. Still a performer at heart, she continues to entertain by retelling stories of her former days all the while churning out a fresh batch of her all-natural, organic gelato. Many customers welcome the warm conversation and exciting adventures she so enthusiastically shares. What customers are saying Customers continue to rave about the big flavors coming out of this small shop… This family run shop holds true to its five star reputation!! Best gelato I’ve ever had! Really loved the smooth and creamy texture of each flavor. They have vegan and sugar free options! You can try as many flavors and really enjoyed the authenticity of the store. You can taste the fresh ingredients that they promise. I had the Ferro Roche flavor as well as the refreshing strawberry. Both were excellent and not too sweet. The Ferro Roche was very rich in chocolate with delicious nuts inside. The strawberry had fresh strawberries blended in. I had two kids’ scoops and it came with a tiny cone, added a nice touch. The service was amazing and very friendly. They were super accommodating and helpful in helping us pick our flavors. ~ Esther S. Made In Rome Organic Gelato is located at 5204 Ocean Blvd., in the Siesta Key Village. Their hours are 11:00 am to 11:00 pm daily. (941) 960-5344, www.madeinromegelato.com (Advertorial)

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MONTHLY MEETING Thursday, November 8 • 4:30 PM St. Boniface Church Parish Hall 5615 Midnight Pass Road

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NOVEMBER 2018

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Yet another crash at Higel and Siesta Drive By Rachel Brown Hackney When Sgt. Jason Mruczek, leader of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office substation on Siesta Key, took the podium during the Oct. 4 Siesta Key Association meeting, he said he had little to report, other than “a few thefts” from vehicles. “Keep your cars locked,” he told the audience, and do not leave valuables out in the open, where they can tempt someone. When he asked whether anyone had questions for him, one woman reported another vehicle crash at the sharp intersection where Higel Avenue intersects Siesta Drive on the north end of the Key. Because that area of the island is within the city limits, Mruczek responded, the Sarasota Police Department would have handled the incident. He was unaware of it, he said. Dee Reams, chair of the Make Siesta Drive Safer committee of the Bay Island Siesta Association, told Mruczek, the license tag of the vehicle fell off during the incident, so police officers were

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able to find the driver of the car. An inquiry to Genevieve Judge, public information officer for the Police Department, requesting if the report on the accident was available, she emailed this reporter a copy of it. The call about the crash came in at 11:28 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 28, the report said. The officer who wrote the narrative explained that an anonymous female witness had reported that the driver of an orange car traveling northbound on Higel lost control in the curve and almost struck her vehicle. The orange car went off the north side of the road and crashed into a sign alerting drivers to the curve ahead, the narrative noted. Then the car continued up an embankment, traveled through the Higel Park landscaping and crashed into a Verizon/Frontier cable box before proceeding across La Paloma Avenue and crashing into the mailbox and water main in front of the home at 3435 La Paloma Ave., the narrative added. The vehicle continued through the landscaping between that residence and the home at 3423 La Paloma Ave. before colliding with the mailbox in front of the house at 3423 La Paloma Ave., the narrative pointed out. After that crash, the narrative noted that the vehicle “fled through the neighborhood.” The witness reported that the driver came back out onto Siesta Drive, eastbound, and left the scene. The officer found “several pieces of the vehicle throughout the crash scene,” the narrative said. “Water was flooding Siesta Drive because the water main had been damaged in front of 3435 La Paloma Ave.” The police notified city staff to shut off the water main, and Dispatch contacted Frontier about the damaged box, the narrative added. The officer later delivered the pieces of the vehicle to the Police Department’s Property division as evidence, the narrative said, and the officer left business cards for the homeowners. “I was unable to locate the suspect vehicle, but advised the oncoming shift of the situation,” the officer wrote. Then, at 1:48 p.m. on Sept.

29, the narrative continued, another police officer advised the investigating officer that a New Jersey license tag from the vehicle had been found in front of 3201 Higel Ave. The investigating officer picked it up, the narrative noted, and determined that it was registered to Joseph Adamski Jr., 43. Adamski’s Florida license showed his address as 2564 10th St., Apt. 302, in Sarasota. When the officer went to that address, the officer saw a damaged orange 2018 Dodge Challenger parked outside, the narrative added. Adamski told the officer he was driving the vehicle at the time of the crash, the narrative continued, but he had no passengers with him and he was not injured. “He told me that he left the scene because he didn’t realize that he damaged anything,” the officer wrote in the narrative, adding that Adamski had reported the crash to his insurance company. “I told Joseph that there was a lot of damage for him not to realize it,” the officer pointed out in the narrative. Then Adamski admitted to the officer that he had taken a Benadryl earlier in the day after having been stung by a bee, the narrative said. Adamski told another officer that he was using his cellphone when he lost control of the vehicle, the narrative added. The officer who wrote the narrative issued Adamski citations for careless driving and leaving the scene of a crash with property damage. “I released Joseph’s bumper to him,” the officer concluded the narrative. Damage to the Verizon/ Frontier box was estimated at $1,000; damage to the mailbox, landscaping and water main at 3435 La Paloma Ave. was put at $3,500; damage to the warning sign for the curve and the landscaping by the road was estimated at $1,000; and damage to the landscaping and mailbox at 3423 La Paloma Ave. was put at $500, the report said. The fine set forth in the state statutes for a moving violation — such as a charge of careless driving — is $166, according to Adamski’s case record in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Sarasota.

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NOVEMBER 2018

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Judge dismisses Siesta Key Association’s Big Pass case

By Rachel Brown Hackney

|SKA files an Amended Verified Complaint for Injunctive and Declaratory Relief A 12th Judicial Circuit Court judge dismissed a verified complaint the Siesta Key Association (SKA) filed against the City of Sarasota in early 2017, seeking to stop the dredging of Big Sarasota Pass to renourish about 1.6 miles of South Lido Key Beach. Circuit Court Judge Andrea McHugh wrote in her Oct. 12 order that while Florida’s Environmental Protection Act “permits citizens to seek judicial enforcement of an environmental law, rule, or regulation,” she could find “little precedent” for the SKA’s argument that a county comprehensive plan “qualifies as a law, rule or regulation.” In its March 2017 complaint, the SKA contended that the City of Sarasota needed the approval of the Sarasota County Commission to dredge Big Pass, based on a policy in the county’s Comprehensive Plan and a section of the city’s own Comprehensive Plan. The city’s plan says that it must comply with the county’s plan, the SKA pointed out in its complaint. The SKA last year commissioned research by prominent coastal geology and fisheries experts to raise significant concerns about the potential for the dredging to cause serious harm to the waterway and to property on Siesta Key. The city was co-applicant with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) for a Joint Coastal Permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) for the Lido project, which is planned over a 50-year period. Last month, City Engineer Alexandrea DavisShaw and a representative of the USACE’s Jacksonville District Office signed an agreement for the federal agency’s participation in the project. Circuit Court Judge McHugh explained in her Oct. 12 order that the Joint Coastal Permit would allow the city and the USACE to remove about 1.3 million cubic yards of sand from Big Pass and construct groins

on South Lido Key to try to keep sand in place between renourishments, which are expected to be necessary every five to seven years, based on USACE and city staff statements. The SKA cited county Environmental Policy 4.6.1 of the Comprehensive Plan as the basis for its argument that the city needs county approval to dredge Big Pass. That policy says, “Prohibit dredge and fill activities in the Gulf of Mexico, bays, rivers, and streams of the county except to maintain previously dredged functional navigation channels and existing drainage canals.” Big Pass never has been dredged. The SKA planned to file an amended complaint, by its attorney, Kent Safriet of Hopping Green & Sams in Tallahassee. In a telephone interview the same day, SKA Vice President Catherine Luckner pointed to the fact that McHugh had dismissed the complaint without prejudice, thereby opening the door to the filing of a revised version of the nonprofit’s arguments. The SKA had 15 days within which to respond to McHugh’s order, Luckner added. SKA filed an Amended Verified Complaint for Injunctive and Declaratory Relief and for Writ of Mandamus against the City of Sarasota. Filed October 23, 2018, it asks the Court to issue a Final Judgement declaring the City is required to comply with the Sarasota County Ordinances under Title XX Section 54-653(4)a) of the Code. Petitioning for a Writ of Mandamus is common law remedy to enforce established legal rights by compelling public officers or agencies to perform (their) duties as required by law. “The City of Sarasota has refused to submit any aspect of its project for review by the County under the correct Ordinance cited. By failing to do this, it leaves no other remedy available to us” stated Catherine Luckner, Vice President of SKA.

The City of Sarasota has 20 days to respond to this Amended Complaint. The Amended Complaint of October 23, 2018 can be viewed at www.siestakeyassociation.com. In a statement released after the Oct. 15 City Commission meeting, City Manager Tom Barwin said, “The litigation has delayed the project by over a year. I only wish the $500,000 collectively spent in litigation could have been invested in collaborating to advance our collective shoreline protective efforts.”

The SKA complaint In its verified complaint in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court, the SKA contended that language in the introduction to the county Comprehensive Plan “requires all development orders entered by any state commission, board, agency, department or official, concerning development within the geographic area subject to the Comprehensive Plan, to be evaluated for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan,” McHugh wrote. The SKA failed to state a legal cause of action, she added. It attempted to use the Florida Environmental Protection Act (FEPA) of 1971, she continued, “to compel the City to comply” with the City of Sarasota Comprehensive Plan, the county’s plan and Florida’s Community Planning Act. Following a July 23 hearing on a motion to dismiss the SKA complaint, filed by the city and the Lido Key Residents Association — which was allowed to intervene in the case —McHugh allowed all the parties to file additional materials. On Aug. 17, Kevin Hennessy of Lewis, Longman & Walker of St. Petersburg — counsel for the Lido Key Residents Association (LKRA) — filed a reply for the city and the LKRA to supplemental material SKA attorney Safriet had filed.

“Comprehensive plans are not laws, zoning ordinances, rules, regulations, or any sort of binding authority upon any entity other than the local government that adopted it,” he pointed out, citing a 1992 Florida Second District Court of Appeal case. Additionally in her order, McHugh said the FEPA “was enacted as a means of carrying out Florida’s constitutional mandate to abate air and water pollution” in the state. However, to compel action under the FEPA, she continued, “there must be ‘a law, rule or regulation for the protection of air, water and other natural resources of the state’ to either compel the authority to enforce or prevent the authority from violating …” Safriet had pointed out in his Aug. 6 supplemental filing in the case that the FEPA says, “The court may grant injunctive relief and impose conditions on the defendant which are consistent with and in accordance with law and any rules or regulations adopted by any state or local government agency which is charged to protect the air, water, and other natural resources of the state from pollution, impairment, or destruction.” Safriet further argued that the Florida Supreme Court, in the 1980 case Fla. Wildlife Fed’n v. State Dep’t of Envtl. Reg., “has stated ‘by enacting the FEPA, the legislature created a new cause of action, giving the citizens of Florida new substantive rights not previously possessed. This statute sets out an entirely new cause of action.’” “It is beyond dispute,” Safriet added, “that Environmental Policy 4.6.1 of the Sarasota County Comprehensive Plan protects the water and natural resources of Big Sarasota Pass.” He argued that “the facts demonstrate … that the City has improperly refused to seek a development order from the County and the Court can order it to do so.”

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Saint Boniface Church In 2019, Saint Boniface Church, on Midnight Pass Road, will be celebrating its 65th year. Back in 1954, Siesta Key was still relatively undeveloped, but it was clear to the one local Episcopal Church that a need existed for some new places of worship in the area. The Key was growing and seemed like a natural fit. “At that time, Florida was experiencing a lot of post-World War II growth,” said St. Boniface Rector Wayne Farrell. “The Church of the Redeemer, the mother church downtown, spun off a lot of mission churches and we were one of them. When that happens, the larger church assists the smaller church with starting up and providing them with resources, which allows a ministry to serve more people.” St. Boniface’s first services were held by Rev. Leon Bruijin in a storefront on Midnight Pass Road. Even though the average attendance at Sunday services was initially around 66 worshipers, there was enough interest for the church to apply for an official charter within the first four months of operation. In March of 1956, the church purchased 4 ½ acres on Midnight Pass Road, where the current church now stands, for a price of $5,615. Fiftysix families who were members of the church pledged almost $40,000, which had been the building fund goal, and by the middle of 1957, the first building had been completed. After achieving parish status in 1962, other buildings were added to St. Boniface, including classrooms, a parish hall, a nursery, a kitchen, an enlarged sacristy and a new building for the Healing Mission. St. Boniface’s currently used church building was built in 1980 employing a hexagonal shape. The idea behind that configuration in sanctuaries is that the pews facing toward each other provides a more intimate setting and gives the feeling of a family drawing strength from one another. Rev. Farrell, who became the Rector in October of 2016, says the setting speaks to the character of the church itself. “We want a church where, when people come to it, they know that we can help them bring about God’s kingdom on earth,” he said. “We focus on respecting every human being through dignity, and we do it with love.” Indeed, the Episcopal Church Foundation mission statement, as depicted in their “Book of Common Prayer,” is as follows: “To restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ.” As such, St. Boniface also focuses on connecting with the Siesta Key community at large. The sanctuary seats around 550 parishioners, and during tourist season can easily fill up for the two Sunday services. And from January through May, the church opens up its community center in the back to host a Friday Fish Fry that is open to the public. For only $12, attendees can get a fish dinner, drink, dessert and a lot of hospitality. Rev. Farrell says that the church is also known throughout the area for their gift for praising God through music. “Our choir is directed by the wonderful Dr. James Guyer, and we have a concert series throughout the year,” he said. “About 90 percent of them are free to the public. And we also have the Siesta Youth Chorale, which is open to all children from Pre-K to 5th grade—you don’t have to be a member here to participate.” The St. Boniface Preschool was begun as an outreach ministry of the church in 1982 and is housed on the grounds of the church. They employ a child-centered, developmentally appropriate curriculum, focusing on activities that build social and emotional development. Though the children don’t need to be members of St. Boniface Church to go to school there, they do attend a weekly chapel led by Associate Rector Jonathan Evans and get to participate in the music program led by Dr. Guyer. As for the future of the church, Rev. Farrell says that it, just as with everything St. Boniface does, will be approached through the lenses of the four pillars of their ministry: Worship, Teaching, Healing and Service. “We want to continue to be the open and affirming congregation we’ve always been,” he said. “We want everyone to know that they’re a child of God and that they can live the life that God wants them to live.” Saint Boniface Episcopal Church is located at 5615 Midnight Pass Road, on Siesta Key. For more information, and to find a list of services, visit the website at www.bonifacechurch.org or call 941-349-5616.

By Debbie Flessner

The first rectory was being moved in 1958 from Point of Rocks Road to the church grounds. It had moved to POR from Shell Road years prior

Saint Boniface Church is built in a hexagonal shape, meant to create a sense of presence and intimacy

Future site of St. Boniface which was purchased for $5,616 in 1957

The first building was completed mid-1957 after 56 families pledged the funds needed for its completion

Associate Rector Jonathan Evans and Rector Wayne Farrell are both very involved with their parishioners

This aerial view photo was from the late 1960s

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NOVEMBER 2018

Shoot out at the Circle K Late Sunday evening, October 21st, a Siesta Key deputy responded to the area of the Circle K located at 5041 Ocean Blvd. in regard to numerous 9-1-1 calls reporting a male subject firing a gun outside the store. One of the callers provided the shooter’s description as a white male wearing a blue shirt and white cowboy hat. Another caller stated the male was in front of the Solórzano’s Pizzeria and had taken off his shirt. According to the report, the deputy located a male sitting on a bench in front of the pizzeria. He was wearing a white cowboy hat without a shirt and was sitting next to a female. The deputy was able to safely secure the male into handcuffs. Upon contact with the defendant Michael Alan Anders, a 33 year old Bradenton resident, the report states, the deputy observed a strong odor of alcohol and located a black nylon empty handgun holster clipped to the defendant’s right front hip. At that point, the defendant uttered, “You ain’t never gonna find that gun. I hid it.” The accompanying female said they were arguing in the Circle K when Anders became enraged because he was not able to find his truck keys. The report states she walked away then heard multiple gunshots and heard Anders scream her name. She was unable to see him so could not determine if the gunshots were aimed in her direction although, according to the report, he had not threatened or battered her. The report states the clerk at the Circle K provided a sworn written statement in which she recalled the defendant entering the store and being highly

agitated. She stated he was yelling and cursing. When she asked him to stop yelling, he lifted his shirt to display the handle of the gun in his waistband. She stated he then went outside and continued to yell and she once again attempted to calm him down telling him he was scaring the other people in the area. She stated he replied, “Go ahead and call the f------ cops. I’ll shoot them m----- f------.” The surveillance video confirmed what was written in the sworn statement. Deputies searched the surrounding area, the report continued, and located nine spent 9 MM shell casings in the middle of the intersection of Calle Minorga and Avenida Milano. According to the report, Anders admitted he had hidden the gun in the toolbox in the bed of his truck, post Miranda Warning. Anders walked to the vehicle and gave consent for deputies to enter the toolbox and retrieve the weapon. Deputies recovered a Taurus Millennium 9 MM sitting in the left corner of the toolbox. The gun had an empty 12 round clip which was still in the gun. The slide was open in the “locked back” position which is consistent with a weapon that has been fired until it was out of ammo. Deputies were not able to locate any bullet holes and no one in the area reported being injured by gunfire. The report noted that the area was heavily populated with people walking around the Village at the time gunshots were fired. Numerous witnesses stated they heard the yelling and gunshots but did not see the shooter.

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the event Sand Dollar Island is part of the proposed dredging area. That Comprehensive Plan policy has been at the heart of a verified complaint the SKA filed against the City of Sarasota in 2017 to try to prevent the removal of sand from Big Pass, as the city is the joint recipient of a Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) Joint Coastal Permit for the Lido Key Renourishment Project. The SKA has maintained that the city violated the county’s Comprehensive Plan because the city never obtained permission of the county for the planned dredging of the pass. The 12th Judicial Circuit Court judge who heard arguments in late July on the city’s motion to dismiss the court case ruled against the SKA on Oct. 12, but the SKA plans to file an amended complaint in the case, Luckner said. (See the related article in this issue.) With a recent check with county staff to find out whether answers had been provided to Luckner about the island, Media Relations Specialist Brianne Grant responded in an Oct. 15 email: “Planning and Development has received the questions from Ms. Luckner and is reviewing the information. No update has been provided yet.” Grant was referring to the county department that oversees the Environmental Permitting Division and related issues.

www.TurtleBeachGrill.com

8865 Midnight Pass Road

Continued from cover story

According to the county’s Zoning Code, OUC districts are “intended to preserve and protect native habitats, wilderness areas, marsh lands, watersheds, water recharge areas, open spaces, park lands (unless otherwise zoned Government Use), scenic areas, historical and archaeological resources and beaches.” The deed for the property, dated January 1954, shows the state gave the property to the county. In the deed, the property is called a “spoil island in Big Sarasota Pass.” The deed makes it clear that the county “shall never sell or convey or lease the above described land or any part thereof to any private person, firm or corporation for the private use or purpose, it being the intention of this restriction that the said land shall be used solely for public purposes.” If the county were to violate the restrictions, the deed says, the land would revert to the state. The property listed in the records of all countyowned land completed by staff earlier this year in an effort to identify surplus property the county could sell. The list references the parcel as “Submerged island,” with the additional note that it should be retained. It is among many parcels on the property list within the county’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department’s holdings. The island is valued at $3,100 on that list. Luckner also has asked county staff in her Oct. 11 email whether Environmental Policy 4.6.1 of the county’s Comprehensive Plan and/or the county’s Water Navigation Control Authority would apply in

daily

Liquor ~ Wine ~ Beer

Dredging

Staff report

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

& Martini Bar

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TWO GREATPLACES PLACES ONE TWO GREAT ONELOCATION! LOCATION! 5263Ocean Ocean Blvd. || Siesta 5263 SiestaKey Key

Big Water Fish Market

Retail Market & Restaurant ~ Where It’s A Seafood Festival Everyday Now with 2 Locations on Siesta Key to Serve You

South Siesta Key Original Location:

6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Crescent Plaza SIESTA KEY’S HOME OF THE STONE CRAB CLAWS

Monday - Grouper BLT Tuesday - Tuna Tuesdays Wednesday - Softshell Crab Sandwich Thursday - Lobster Roll Friday - Pompano Cubano Open Mon – Sat: 11am – 9pm Open for Lunch and Dinner Sun: 4-9PM (Dinner Only) www.bigwaterfishmarket.com • 941-554-8101

North Siesta Key Location:

217 Avenida Madera, in the Village

Check Out Our Daily Specials

Open Mon-Sat: Noon – 8PM Sun: 4-8PM (Dinner Only) 941-552-8826

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

Volunteering: The healing power of friendship Dale Wolfson is the volunteer coordinator for Compeer Sarasota. Compeer provides healing friendships and mentoring for youth ages 5 to 17 and adults of all ages living with mental illness. It is an internationallyrecognized mental health agency, and Compeer’s volunteers are positioned to make a remarkable difference in someone’s life. As volunteer coordinator, Dale looks for friendly, accepting and emotionally mature volunteers who are looking for a flexible opportunity, one which commits them to an average of 4 hours per month for a period of at least one year. It is not a lot of time, but the results can be profound. The organization was founded by Bernice “Bunny” Skirboll over 40 years ago. She had suffered a near-fatal automobile accident, and her long rehabilitation made her realize the incredible power of friendship. She got together with psychologists at the University of Rochester and started the program nationally in 1973. Today there are 4000 volunteers in Compeer organizations around the world! The concept is simple; it is about doing things that you regularly enjoy doing and sharing those experiences with someone who truly appreciates your time and company. It pairs up volunteers with someone who

Dale Wolfson

TURTLE’S

On little Sarasota Bay CASUAL WATERFRONT DINING

8875 Midnight Pass Rd. • Siesta Key • 941-346-2207 Serving Lunch & Dinner From 11:30 AM

NOW ACCEPTING H APPY HOUR DAIL Y HAPPY HOUR 3-5 PM

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OFFERING: FRESH Sunday Brunch $9.99 • 10AM-3PM ROASTED Incl. complimentary Bloody Mary or Mimosa BUTTERBALL TURKEY Arly ird innEr PEciAlS WITH ALL $ 10.99 - $14.99 from 3-6:00 PM THE TRIMMINGS Complete menu at turtlerestaurant.com Complete menu at turtlerestaurant.com • Discounted Well Drinks • Bar Appetizers $2.99

Outside Dining Offered Bay Front

www.siestasand.net

By Diana Colson

is looking for a friend and, in the case of youth, a mentor and role model. Volunteers participate with their matches in activities such as dining out, attending sporting events, visiting museums, creating art projects, cooking, and outdoor recreation. Choices are limitless, and activities are based on mutual interest. Volunteers might also tutor or help youth with homework. The idea here is to build selfconfidence, self-reliance, and healthy relationships through the healing power of friendship. Clients are referred into the program by their therapists, doctors, school counselors or case managers. Volunteers are thoroughly screened and trained for their important work. They are matched according to their preferences, and the matches are supported every step of the way by the Compeer staff. There are 2-hour quarterly roundtables where volunteers meet with other volunteers to discuss common issues, concerns and share experiences. As Compeer volunteer coordinator, Dale Wolfson is always available to provide help and advice, as are teachers and parents of the youth, as well as the mental health professionals who recommended the clients to the program. Compeer gives all volunteers the tools and resources necessary. They know who to call should they have an issue. There is LOTS of support available within the program. Says Dale, “The children and adults we serve may suffer from anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, or schizophrenia, a full range of mental health disorders. The youth may also have attention deficit disorder or exhibit symptoms of autism. Usually the adults are isolated, their family and friends having rejected them because of their illness. We are dealing with fragile people here. That’s why we ask the volunteer to make a commitment for at least one year. At the end of that year we reevaluate the relationship, but most of our matches go on for many years.” All volunteers must pass screening: fingerprints for the FBI, background checks through the Dept. of Children & Families and the Child Abuse Registry. Dale taught school before stopping to raise her family. In 1996, she and her husband moved to Pennsylvania. There she and her husband ran the KLAS program, Kids Learning After School, for at-risk students, funded federally by the 21st Century Community Learning Center grant. Her background in education includes being a classroom teacher of middle school and high school students, and a life skills teacher to developmentally-delayed adults at Children’s Haven. Speaking from personal experience as a Compeer volunteer with an adult match, Dale says: “This is one of the most rewarding experiences one can have as a volunteer. Working with Compeer can be a life changer for both the client and the volunteer. I no longer think of my time spent with my friend as ‘volunteering.’ I’ve made a new friend and we socialize together just as I do with all my other friends. It’s win-win for both of us.” Although the program calls for a one-year commitment, Snowbirds are able to participate. In today’s world, the electronic meeting room is useful, especially with kids. When out of town, snowbirds can stay in touch with their match via Skype, phone, Facebook, Instagram, etc. In summary, Compeer’s model matches people in a 1:1 relationship that utilizes the HEALING POWER OF FRIENDSHIP to change lives. Several Siesta Key residents now volunteer at Compeer Sarasota, but more are always needed. Learn more at www.compeersarasota. org. Talk with Dale Wolfson about this extraordinary and important opportunity. She may be reached at the Compeer office, located in the administrative offices of Coastal Behavioral Healthcare, at 941927-8900, ext. 1123 and dwolfson@coastalbh.org, or personally at dalewolfson1@gmail.com and at 941- 923-2229 or 717-404-7815.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Beach Wedding

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

By Trebor Britt

Esther & Mark

With a soft Gulf breeze stirring the air and gentle waves lapping against the powder white sands of Siesta Key beach, the beautiful wedding of Esther and Mark unfolded. Family and friends, clad in white, watched as the bride, dressed in a fuchsia-colored gown with a bone-colored bodice, gracefully walked up the cloth covered sandy aisle, on the arm of her son John, to join soon-to-be husband Mark Smith. Smith, owner of Smith Architects, PA, located in the Siesta Key Village since 1994 decided to meet Esther Quiles after a bit of persuasion by friends. Says Mark, “Mutual friends thought we should meet so we went out to dinner at The Crow’s Nest Restaurant in Venice.” Esther, a retired teacher and assistant principal from a Manhattan high school, decided to spend part of the year down in Florida with her sister-in-law Sandy. Both lost their husbands around the same time so spent time together consoling each other. After three years, they made a pact to move on with their lives so Esther decided to become a permanent resident of Florida. Little did she realize just how special Siesta Key would become for her. After their initial date, it didn’t take long for the two to fall in love. In fact, after two weeks both realized they were meant for each other. Each prayed for a loving relationship and discovered they had so much in common. “It is a realization you come to when you understand how much better your life is with this person in it than it was previously when they were not,” says Mark. “We’re not talking a little bit better but several times better.” Esther shared that, “Mark is such a romantic. I thought I was Morticia Addams from the TV show, The Addams Family,” says Esther. “He would begin kissing me on my neck and work his way down my arm just like Gomez did to Morticia.” When asked why they chose Siesta Beach to have their wedding, Esther replied, “Our first kiss was on the Sun Deck at Siesta Beach, and I’ve come to know so many of the people on the island, so it was an easy decision where we’d have our wedding.” After their honeymoon in Rio de Janeiro, Esther plans to return as a substitute teacher at the Sarasota School of Arts & Science and Mark will continue working in his, now complete, island paradise.

Smith Beach Wedding

Fresh Catch Fish Market & Grill From the Market...

Large selection of fresh seafood. Special Orders Welcome!

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SEAS IT’S STONE CRAB

LIDAY ORDERS EARLY

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From the Grill... Fresh fish your way: Grilled or Blackened & topped with Lemon Butter, Pico or Salsa. Soups, Sandwiches, Steam pots & more!

www.FreshCatchFishMarketandGrill.com

941-413-7133

7119 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Just off the Key, 1/4 mile south of Stickney Point Road

Open Mon. - Sat. 11 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Pub food kicked up a notch The popular dive bar location at 6528 Superior Avenue in the Gulf Gate bar district has undergone some serious changes. There’s a sign on the roof with a half burger / half beer mug merged together as one and the sign boldly states “GULF GATE FOOD + BEER”… but what does that mean? It’s so simple it’s stupid… it’s a spot in Gulf Gate that serves food and serves beer. Seems simple enough right? Here’s the catch though it’s anything but simple. Gulf Gate Food + Beer is a modern spin on a classic sports bar. Yes, there are lots of TVs, great chicken wings, and paper towel rolls on each table… but it’s a whole lot more than that. The rustic décor, blue tufted leather booths, and unique menu options really set it apart from the average sports bar we all know and love. Their first venture on their own, owners Casey Daniels & Mike Whalen have a combined 45 years in the restaurant business. They’ve set out to create a cool neighborhood joint that everyone can enjoy. If it’s a family outing, a girl’s night out on the town, a big sporting event, or just a casual lunch with friends then this is the spot. Growing up in Sarasota Mike felt Gulf Gate was the right neighborhood for their venture. “I love this neighborhood! This is where the locals hang out,” says Whalen. “I can’t think of any other place in Sarasota with so many great small businesses, bars, and restaurants. It’s neat to go into these businesses and see the owners being hands on bartending, cooking, etc. That’s the American dream. We can really relate with it”

The menu at GGFB has some really stand out appetizers. The Tin Can Nachos have become an instant sensation. Fresh cut tortilla chips topped with a house made queso, tomatillo roasted chicken, pico de gallo, pinto beans, sour cream, roasted poblano guacamole, and pickled onions. Another popular item is the Mexican Street Corn which is sections of corn on the cobb slathered in chipotle mayo, feta cheese, & cilantro. If chicken wings are your things you might try the “PB+J” or the “Slightly Stoopid” made from roasted habaneros… it’s stupid hot! A more decadent choice is the Fried Goat Cheese served with fresh basil and pink marinara. Casey calls these “a grownups mozzarella cheese stick.” Burgers are your thing? Then these guys have you covered. If you’re just looking for a basic cheeseburger try the “low five” which comes with American cheese on a buttered bun with all the traditional fixings. (Monday – Friday 11am – 3pm they feature this burger with fries for $6.99) If you’re looking for more of a burger adventure try the “You Jel?” which comes with

CUISINE OF NORTHEAST THAILAND

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Gluten Free

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5758 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

941.923.1232

Next to Phillippi Estate Park. Serving Siesta Key and Sarasota

www.IsanThaiRestaurant.com

Explore Our 4.49 Daily Specials

chipotle cream cheese, jalapeno pepper jelly, breakfast bacon, & a roasted jalapeno. If you’re a guacamole fan try the “Holy Guacamole” living up to its name it features their house-made guacamole, pico de gallo, Monterey jack cheese, & a pinto bean tostada. What about sandwiches you ask? How about the “Legalize Marinara” which comes with scratch fried chicken, pink marinara, basil, mozzarella & parmesan cheeses all on a garlic hoagie bread. Vegetarian? Then try the “Hollywood Herbivore” a plant-based burger, not available in stores, which they top with pecan goat cheese, pickled radish, and arugula. A real curveball on their menu is their “Grains” section. Here they feature proteins and veggies served over sticky rice. The favorite is the “Chicken Burrito Bowl” topped with pinto beans, pico de gallo, sour cream and Monterey jack cheese. Vegetarians love the “Peanut & Portobello Bowl” which comes with chopped portobellos mushrooms, Impossible burger crumbles, pickled radish, bok choy, a 6 minute hard boiled egg marinated in soy, peanuts, and a peanut sauce. Also they have a “Cali hot cobb bowl” & a “Poke Tuna.” These guys are just getting started and having a lot of fun with it. They say that every week has been busier, and they’ve already gained a great regular following in such a short time. It’s only a matter of time before Guy Fieri shows up in his red convertible or something… so hurry up and come check it out while you can still get a table! Open Monday – Sunday from 11 am to 1 am and 2 am on Friday-Saturday. (Advertorial)

BREAKFAST and LUNCH

SERVED ALL DAY

Great Sandwiches

Since 1994

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Sandwich Construction Specialists

“The Landings Plaza”

4982 S. Tamiami Trail

Sarasota, FL 34231 941-925-3955 Fax 926-0066 View menu at corkscrewdeli.com

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MSN Food and Drink Jan. 2015

Full

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Bloody Marys

6621 Midnight Pass Road Just S. of Stickney Pt. Road

941-552-6485 Open 7 Days A Week ~ 7 AM - 3 PM

www.ToastedMangoCafe.com

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Microcurrent facials...what’s all the hype about? Before Treatment

After 6 Treatments

After 12 Treatments

NOW OPEN FOR

LUNCH DAILY How many times have you looked in the mirror thinking to yourself - a little nip here perhaps a tuck there would really help take some years off your appearance. But then you think of the time needed to recuperate after a facelift and wonder just how much pain is involved not to mention expense and possible risk of complications, so decide against it. There must be a safer, painless alternative with less expense and no downtime. Well, there IS! Connie Lewis, LMT Aesthetician, former proprietor and Spa Director at Massage Experience, Siesta Key is continuing to offer her microcurrent (anti-aging) facial at her new studio located inside of SPALYPSO. The microcurrent facial is rejuvenating and offers a safe alternative to more invasive treatments on the market today. This facial has been a favorite of royalty in Europe for years. Oprah featured it on her shows some years back. It’s a very luxurious, pampering, results-driven facial which lifts, tones and tightens the muscles of your face. The effects are immediate and cumulative. This uplifting therapy is preventative, as well as corrective. It’s a great alternative to surgery as it is non-invasive and quite enjoyable and relaxing.

Sounds good, but how does it work? The gentle and 100% non-invasive treatment works in synergy with your body’s natural energy system. It sends safe, painless impulses to the muscles in your face to relax muscles that are overly tightened, and strengthens those that are underworked with very low levels of electrical current. It stimulates the production of collagen and elastin providing a natural-looking lift. During the microcurrent facial, probes are used to physically move the muscle into the desired position to perform what is known as muscle re-education – the process of lengthening or shortening muscles. In essence, it retrains the facial muscles and rebuilds them closer to their original shape.

Research on microcurrent technology A study by the University of Washington proved that microcurrent increases your skin’s elastin fibers by 45%, collagen by 10% and the number of blood vessels by 35%. It can increase ATP, your body’s building block, by 500% resulting in softening wrinkles and toning facial muscles. Interestingly, this technology stems from a medical treatment to treat Bell’s Palsy. Many of the patients

found it worked so well, they asked to have the unaffected side of their face treated as well.

Can you use it in conjunction with facial injections? If you’ve received facial injections, facial sculpting or microcurrent facials are for you too! It will help maintain your lift in between your injections. Since this process is cumulative, more treatments bring more noticeable and longer lasting results. Most people see their desired results within 7 -12 treatments. The combined use of Pevonia Botanica’s ultimate anti-aging products during this facial treatment enhances the treatment even more by assisting in product penetration. Lewis recently closed her former location Massage Experience, Siesta Key and is now practicing in the Gulf Gate Estates area just over the Stickney Point Bridge. She is currently offering her signature treatment that combines a facial and a massage simultaneously. And, of course, her massage offerings include deeply relaxing intuitive massage therapy and her ever-popular hot stone massage. “My personal philosophy when working with a client for the first time or the 101st time is to see with my hands. To help me intuitively know when and how much to use the wands when sculpting during a microcurrent facial,” says Lewis. “Or how much pressure and on what areas to work during a massage session. After so many years of practice, I have a sixth sense that guides me through the service to let me hands tell me what to do. Energetically and physically allowing to give my clients the perfect session.” Connie Lewis, BS LMT Aesthetician, established Massage Experience, Siesta Key (1996-2018) and is now providing all of her services at Spalypso located in the Pine Park Office Centre, 7037 S. Tamiami Trail. Just minutes from the Stickney Point Bridge from Siesta Key. You can book an appointment online at SpaexperienceSiestaKey.com or by calling 941-3507495.

3971 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota FL • (941) 924-9090 FREE BANG BANG SHRIMP® WITH PURCHASE OF AN ENTRÉE One free regular size Bang Bang Shrimp valid until 12-31-18 with purchase of one entrée at participating Bonefish Grill locations only. Prices, product and participation may vary by location. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, discount or coupon. No cash value. Available all day for dine-in only. Void where prohibited by law. SHOW THIS TO YOUR SERVER TO REDEEM

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Palmer Ranch Dental would like to wish everyone a

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941-966-5603

Call Today For An Appointment

941-925-2433

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Sgt. Mruczek now Lt. Mruczek — and off the Key By Rachel Brown Hackney

Open Daily 7am-9pm

Breakfast served all day, every day! *7AM-12PM on holidays

Join Us for the holidays! Special holiday menu

Open Thanksgiving Day Christmas Eve Christmas Day 7AM-8PM

6721 S. Tamiami Trl • Sarasota

941.924.1770

DutchValleyRestaurant.net

During the October 2016 meeting of the Siesta Key Association (SKA), members greeted Sgt. Jason Mruczek, the new leader of the Siesta Key substation of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. As a deputy, Mruczek had worked on the island in years past. In 2014, he was promoted to sergeant. As of Oct. 18, Mruczek is a lieutenant. A Sheriff’s Office announcement about recent promotions included that news, adding that Mruczek had been assigned to the office’s Law Enforcement Division. In response to a question, Mruczek wrote in an Oct. 18 email, “[Y]es I have left the key. They should have my replacement by the end of next week I hope.” A Sheriff’s Office news release about the promotion notes that Mruczek began his law enforcement career in 2000 as a public service aide with the Rochester Police Department in New York. “He earned his law enforcement certification in 2002,” it adds, and he was hired by the Sheriff’s Office in 2003. Mruczek worked in the Patrol Bureau for several years before transferring to the Siesta Key substation. The news release noted that Mruczek graduated from the Sheriff’s Office Leadership academy in 2014. Twice, it said, he has been nominated

for Employee of the Month. Additionally, the release continued, Mruczek has taken several advance courses through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Most recently, he graduated from FBI-LEEDA’s 306th Command Institute for Law Enforcement Executives. (FBI-LEEDA is a nonprofit corporation whose members are primarily “chief executive officers of law enforcement agencies, directors and commissioners of public safety, and elected sheriffs throughout the United States and numerous foreign countries,” its website says. Its mission, the website explains, is “to advance the science and art of law enforcement leadership and promote the exchange of information to improve law enforcement management practices through training, education, and networking among police professionals across the United States and beyond.) “Mruczek earned his associate’s degree from Monroe Community College and continues to work towards obtaining his bachelor’s degree,” the release concluded. This reporter can add that Mruczek was always very fast to respond to emails, which is a big help to any news publication.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 26

VILLAGE MAP pgs 22 - 23

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 28 - 29

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 24

Siesta Key Drum Circle Before You Leave...

If you have any non-perishable food items that have not been opened, the Siesta Key Chamber, located at 5114 Ocean Blvd, in the Village at the Davidson Plaza along with St. Michael’s Parish, located at 5394 Midnight Pass Road will gladly take these items and pass them on to the less fortunate in the Sarasota area. Chamber hours for items to be dropped off are as follows: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For instructions on after hour drop-offs, please contact the Chamber office at 941-349-3800. St. Michael’s hours for items to be dropped off are as follows: Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – Noon and again from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. – Noon.

If you are dropping off items after hours, please leave any items at the front door of the parish office. For any additional questions, please contact the office at 941-349-4174.

Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key to reconnect with Mother Nature and to enjoy some wonderful entertainment. I’m talking about the Siesta Key Drum Circle that takes place each Sunday starting about an hour before sunset and lasting until about 10 p.m. The gathering meets up just south of the main pavilion - just follow your ears and watch for the swelling crowd. Please note the following rules of etiquette that need to be observed at the Drum Circle so that all can enjoy the experience: the inside of the drum circle is for participants only, not for people

standing around. Feel free to enter the circle, take a picture and dance, but always keep moving. Never play someone’s drum without getting clearance from the owner. Always ask before borrowing other people’s property, especially hula hoops. Flash photography and bright video lights are distracting, so photograph during daylight or use a night vision camera. And finally, please do not drink alcohol or smoke inside the circle and respect our beach by placing all trash in the appropriate receptacles. Photo Courtesy of Dennis Gottschalk.

Before you leave Sarasota, you must try this one! As seen on the Food Network Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s” show. The TurDucKen “One big bird” Boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck stuffed in a boneless turkey with a variety of great seasonings. Alpine Steakhouse just off of Siesta Key located between the bridges at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-922-3797

Lunch Turducken Sandwich $8.95 and Dinner Turducken $18.95 w/mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

Recent Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce events September 14, 2018 Ribbon Cutting at Chef Rolf’s New Florida Kitchen On September 14th, the Chamber had a Ribbon Cutting for Chef Rolf’s New Florida Kitchen! After cutting the ribbon, Chef Rolf served up a delicious buffet for guests attending the event. This was a great opportunity for everyone to check out one of the new, hottest restaurants in town! September 20, 2018 September BCE at Tiny House Siesta Tiny House Siesta! What a fun venue for the September Business Card Exchange networking event! These little houses are amazing! Thank you Jeremy Ricci, Founder & Tiny House Enthusiast, and Megan Schmid, Reservation Coordinator, for hosting the event and tour. Also, thank you to prize sponsors - Mattison’s and GEM Travel.

October 12, 2018 October Networking Luncheon at First Watch Thank you, First Watch Sarasota on South Tamiam for hosting our October Networking Luncheon! Th Watch team, along with Eleni Pierce and Kevin H created a tasty fall menu for our guests to enjoy with fa such as the Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast and th Chicken Quinoa! We appreciate the door prizes don the following businesses: Beautiful Reflections, SER Mattison’s Forty-One, On Time Pool Service, and First

October 15, 2018 Volunteer Trolley Tour The Chamber volunteers enjoyed a trolley tour o of Siesta Key’s accommodations and businesses! getting an inside look at multiple properties, the treated to refreshments at each stop. A huge thank yo participating businesses: Tiny House Siesta, CB’s Sa Outfitters and Fins, Tropical Sands- Aloha Kai, T Sands- Tivoli By The Sea, Ringling Beach House, A Property Management, and Siesta Sunset Royale. Tha Siesta Trolley for providing a fun way to explore the

The Siesta Key Chamber would like to welco following new members: • Loved Again Boutique • Cavanaugh & Co. LLP • Siesta Key Summerhouse • US Tent Rental • The Miss Venice • Sterling Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeons Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce 5114 Ocean Blv Key, 34242, 941-349-3800.

Map D #11

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa........ Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO The Gallery on Siesta Key................... Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS Martin Funding.......................................Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM..........................Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blaśe Café.............................................Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar.................Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s.............................................. Map-B #33 Siesta Key Oyster Bar......................... Map-B #45 The Beach Club..................................... Map-D #22 The Cottage........................................... Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill............................... Map-D #59

Map B #42

COFFEE SHOPS LeLu’s Coffee Lounge........................ Map-B #31 The Local Bean.....................................Map-D #62 DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs..................................Map-D #65 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack........... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear....................................Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More...........Map-D #64 Everything But Water.......................... Map-D #12 Foxy Lady Fashions............................. Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.............. Map-B #44 Island Boutique.....................................Map-B #50 Island Style............................................ Map-C #53 Marley Vibes........................................... Map-D #9 Sea Shanty............................................. Map-C #24 Siesta T’s.................................................Map-B #30 Swell Things.......................................... Map-D #66 The Sandal Factory...............................Map-B #46 GAS STATION Circle K Store...........................................Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar........................................ Map-C #28 Gilligan’s Gift Store..............................Map-B #32 Island Trader......................................... Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures.................. Map-C #29 Siesta Key Outfitters...........................Map-D #11 Siesta Kids..............................................Map-B #36

THE LOCAL BEAN • Internet Café • Coffee Shop • Tea Room 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village

941-346-8000

WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE?

Map D #62

Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas Cold Pressed Coffee Organic Smoothies Light Lunch (Salads & Sandwiches) Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox Local Pastries Free Snacks

HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions .................. Map-D #10 Siesta Healing......................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness............................... Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery............................... Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato............................................ Map-C #50 Curly Cream Ice Cream......................... Map-D #9 Local Chill Ice Cream.......................... Map-D #60 Made in Rome Gelato........................ Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts.......................... Map-C #24 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt................ Map-D #16 Sunni Bunni Frozen Yogurt................ Map-C #53 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs..................................Map-D #65 LeLu’s Coffee Lounge........................ Map-B #31 The Local Bean.....................................Map-D #62 JEWELRY Created Gems....................................... Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................... Map-D #9

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of some ! While ey were ou to the altwater Tropical Ascendia ank you e island!

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941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

A good meeting with FDEP secretary It is not every day that someone outside of state government gets a private meeting with the secretary of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Yet, that is exactly what Catherine Luckner, vice president of the Siesta Key Association (SKA), and her husband, Robert, a member of the nonprofit’s Environmental Committee, were able to do early this month. Catherine Luckner offered some details about the experience when she addressed SKA members on Oct. 4. Luckner characterized it as a “small meeting,” face-to-face with Secretary Noah Valenstein. They talked about the fact that the Sarasota County Comprehensive Plan calls for inlet management plans to be created for all the county’s waterways, she continued, but neither Big Sarasota Pass nor New Pass is governed by one. “So we’re moving in that direction.” Perhaps even more importantly, Luckner pointed out, she and Robert Luckner were able to discuss with Valenstein research that a Sarasota teenager has undertaken about the area of the Gulf of Mexico just off South Lido Key Beach. The focus of Brooke Welch’s

studies, Catherine Luckner reminded the SKA members, has been the water around “the really big groin that’s next to the public beach on Lido.” Luckner said she expected that groin is about 70 years old. The Luckners showed Valenstein some of the photos Brooke has taken of coral and hardbottom near the groin, Catherine Luckner continued. Such natural resources, Luckner explained, help build up and protect a shoreline. “It’s something that the DEP did not look at,” she said, in the context of the application from the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for a permit to undertake a 50-year renourishment project on South Lido. As explained in a Florida Museum article, “Hardbottom reef communities are found close to shore over limestone rock covered by a thin sandy layer. … Hardbottom habitats provide important cover and feeding areas for many fish and invertebrates.” The discovery of that hardbottom, Luckner continued, could lead to FDEP providing grant funds to the county for research to support that natural system of shoreline protection.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

By Rachel Brown Hackney

The Luckners had downloaded materials and video from Brooke on a pin drive, Catherine Luckner said, so Valenstein would have them to review with FDEP staff. “It’s kind of exciting to me,” she added with a smile. During an Oct. 16 telephone interview, Luckner reported that she also had included Brooke’s contact information on the pin drive. She declined to offer any specific information on how the private meeting with Valenstein came about, other than to say it was through “a personal connection” with someone in Sarasota. “I felt like this is somebody who cares,” she added of her impression of Valenstein after spending time with him. “It was a very good meeting.” During the SKA’s regular session on July 6, 2017, Brooke used slides to illustrate a presentation about her work near the groin off Lido. She noted that she had established a Facebook page, Sarasota Ocean Preservers, to let the public know about her findings and to encourage conservation. She takes photos and video while snorkeling, she explained. As of that time, she had identified 140 species in the water, she said, stressing the

“immense biodiversity for such a small area.” Just the previous day, she pointed out, she had identified three more species. She had been unable to find any evidence that one of them, an anemone, had ever been catalogued by marine researchers. “It’s not a defined species yet.” Brooke also talked of the harm that can come to the marine life that makes its home around the groin. For example, she said, often, when fishermen tangle lines in the groin, they just cut the lines without removing the hooks or lead weights. Fish can be harmed by that debris, she added. Yet, the area is facing “an even greater threat” from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, she continued. In its plans for the long-range renourishment of South Lido, she pointed out, the federal agency wants to add about 50 feet of sand to the shoreline, which would bury and thus kill the marine life. That was what happened when the City of Sarasota undertook a short-term renourishment of the beach in 2015, Brooke pointed out. Many species died, and in just a short time, she noted, all that sand had washed away.

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LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club.......................Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.............................................. Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar............................. Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors........................ Map-C #26 The Beach Club..................................... Map-D #22

Map D #64

MAILING - SHIPPING US Post Office....................................... Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store...........................................Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market...................... Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage......................Map-B #35 Massage Therapy....................................Map-E #1 The Spa at Calle Minorga.....................Map-E #74 MEDICAL - DENTAL Siesta Dental...........................................Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............... Map-D #20 Siesta Medical Center.......................... Map-D #63 Siesta Village Dentistry....................... Map-D #63 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce....................... Map-D #67 Positive RePercussion..........................Map-D #9 Roberti Enterprises.............................. Map-A #39 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts.................Map-B #50 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Edward Jones Investments................. Map-D #68 Smith Architects...................................... Map-E 74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Coldwell Banker Realty....................... Map-D #20 Keller Williams Real Estate................. Map-D #11 Key Realty.............................................. Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty................... Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group........................ Map-C #29 ReMax Tropical Sands.......................Map-D #67 RentSiestaKey.com................................. Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate.......... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop........................ Map-D #10

48 47 46

RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg................... Map-C #54 & 55 Big Water Fish Market, N..................Map-D #15 Blasé Café.............................................Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe............................ Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano.....................................Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar.................Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar....................Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante..................Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill............ Map-B #33 LeLu’s Coffee Bar................................ Map-B #31 Lobster Pot............................................ Map-C #23 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub.....................Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer...........................Map-A#37 Ripfire Pizza...........................................Map-B #47 Señor Siesta........................................... Map-D #69 Siesta Key Oyster Bar......................... Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria....................Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches.............................Map-B #30 Summer House..................................... Map-C #57 Sun Garden Café.................................. Map-D #19 The Cottage........................................... Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill............................. Map-C #59 Village Café..........................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY LaPlaya Spa........................................... Map-C #50 Sassy Hair Salon..................................Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails & Spa........................Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida............................................. Map-C #29 Robin Hood Rentals........................... Map-B #34

Barber Scott Reich

Formerly of the Village Barber

Gulf Gate Barbershop Making Gulf Gate look good since the ‘60’s Bringing over 70 years of life lessons and local knowledge to your haircut (trust us, we know alllll about what you did last summer). It’s not just a haircut, it’s life. We know all about it. Let’s laugh, have a beer, and talk nonsense….that’s free. Haircut? That’s gonna cost you…$15, if we like you, $25 if you’re a P.I.T.A. “Best Local Barbers” 20 years in the running Kyle and Scott “to the second power”

6575 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 941-809-9028 Walk-ins Welcome

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club........................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 DELIS / BAKERIES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14 Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Nutritious You......................................... C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery......B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co............................................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors..........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17 Things You Like...................................... C-3 #14

941.349.0194

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 Sunshine Sand Hidden Treasures........ D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry.................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Sanctuary Siesta Key............................... A-5 #12 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 Crescent Club............................................B-3 #13 Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17

MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 MISCELLANEOUS Moving & Storage....................................B-3 #10 Flowers by Fudgie................................... D-3 #17 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty..................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14

www.siestasand.net

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12 Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant................. D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Daiquiri Deck.................................................A-3 #2 Spear Fish Grill..............................................A-4 #5 Toasted Mango Cafe....................................C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 Munchies.................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 FIN Island Co. . ........................................ A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta............................................ A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak . ......................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina.................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Jetski . ...................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17

“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”

OPEN 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM DAILY

ING FEATUR

Homemade Ice Cream

Sundaes l Shakes l Smoothies l Coffees Espresso l Cappuccinos

1220 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key In the Captain Curt’s Plaza Map B-3#8

941-346-0202

Expires 12/31/18

Open 5 pm pm Map C-3#14 O pen77DDays ays99am am--5

941-346-1797

“Voted Small Business of the Year 941-346-1797 by Siesta Key Chamber”

RepaiRs, sales anD accessORies New 50cc Scooters

HOuRly • Daily • Weekly

TREK BIKES • BEACH WHEELCHAIRS • PADDLEBOARDS SCOOTERS • SCOOTER CARS • KAYAKS • KAYAK TOURS CHAIRS/UMBRELLAS • STROLLERS • SNORKELING GEAR

KAYAK TOURS ONLY 45 54 /PERSON • BEST PRICE AROUND FREE DELIVERY AND P/U ON SIESTA KEY FOR MOST RENTALS $

6551 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL in Southbridge Mall • Map C-3#14

SCOOTER RENTALS f f o Half Days/Full Days/Multi Day Rentals with this Coupon EXPIRES 12/31/14 EXPIRES 12/31/18

Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours

welcome!

Willkommen

GERMAN BAKERY & CAFE German café offering fresh soups and sandwiches on freshly baked breads!

Rum Cakes Breakfast Lunch German Beers and Brats

941-346-1800 • www.ATasteofGermany.net 6575 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key (South of Stickney Pt.)

Map C-3 #14

Map B-3#8

A Taste of Germany 6575 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-5 #12

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-3 #4

Coconuts Fashion MAP 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd. B-3 #1&8

Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.

MAP B-3 #1

Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Toasted Mango Cafe 6621 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-4 #17

MAP C-3 #17

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Snapshots of Island Visitors

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 2

1. Cindy & Doug from IN

2. Jeanie & Dennis from Siesta Key

3. Denise & Hillary from IN 4. Joseph, Sara, & Tayler from Toronto, Canada 5. Bill & Karen from OH 6. Carol & Ralph from Ontario, Canada 8. Dave, Jean & TJ from Brooksville, FL

7. Rudy & Karen from Siesta Key

9. Cora, Kendall, & Charlie from IN

10. Audrey from OH

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

Siesta Sounds

Three may not be enough to call a flock, but this trio of musicians is enough to make a tribe … The Bird Tribe. Lead singer and keyboardist Matthew Frost (whose left hand serves as the band’s bass player), pedal and lap steel guitarist Brian Byrd, and drummer/percussionist Garrett Dawson … are completely in tune (no pun intended) in that their intention is to communicate at a slightly if not higher then certainly different level not intended as mere backdrop for drinking and dancing but actually makes for compelling listening. Which isn’t to say you don’t get exciting vocals (often with a touch of such influences as John Lennon, Jim Morrison, Seal, Buffalo Springfield and others), smokin’ guitar solos (pretty hard to believe those shredding sounds are coming out of a laptop or pedal steel), or Dawson’s folkloric rhythms and steady support of the groove. Let’s just say they’re hot enough to have completely blown out the power one night at a Siesta Village Gilligan’s gig, and when they played WMNF’s Live Music Showcase (one of the last bastions of live music on radio), host Bill Dudley described their music as “red hot!” That show, by the way, is archived on YouTube, offering about an hour of listening to The Bird Tribe (minus the occasional pledge drive pitch) and there are also tracks on YouTube from their new CD Stars in Disguise. No newcomer to this business, Frost’s father (and teacher since the age of three,) was the original keyboard player for Grand Funk Railroad and a 30 year member of Bob Seger’s Silver Bullet Band. Byrd brings in his heavily influenced sacred steel sound from the House of God church in which he was raised, plus soul and blues influences with a heavy dose of good old rock and roll; Dawson has toured with Butch Trucks, Dickey Betts and Great Southern, and is featured on more than 40 studio recordings.

BLASE CAFÉ In the Village 941-349-9822 DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village 941‐349‐8697 GILLIGANS In the Village 941-346-8122

MONDAY Amandah Jantzen th th th (5 , 19 & 26 ) th Nick LeValley (12 ) 7‐10 PM

He and Frost have worked together in many prior incarnations in others’ world and rock groups. With those backgrounds, these guys have nothing to prove and can fully concentrate on showcasing their music instead of themselves. The Bird Tribe has mastered making music that is both exciting and meaningful. While their fans certainly enjoy the sometimes 60s-ish groove they’re putting out there, they also tune in to a decidedly purposeful reach for what Frost describes as a “very positive and spiritual, but not ‘corny’ or ‘religious’” vibe.” With all the vitriol and poison rhetoric spewing from our social media and media in general right now, this music offers both an exciting escape and a welcome respite. The group’s exciting October tour of Florida and Georgia in support of their just released and most excellent CD Stars in Disguise was exhausting and exhilarating, putting their music before people who until now hadn’t been aware of it, as well as being something of a validation for already established faithful fans such as the large Siesta Key contingency that drove a long way to be able to make a couple of the closer gigs and show their support. An especially surprising turn of events came about during the tour when, at Skipper’s Smokehouse, Bird Tribe suddenly went from opening act to headliner; the other band’s transportation had broken down so suddenly instead of performing the opening set as prepared, the whole show was theirs. Surprise! It was a bit of a jolt, but a good one that they embraced and welcomed in their regular “universe unfolding as intended” calm acceptance. If you haven’t heard The Bird Tribe yet, you are really missing something, Their original sound and compositions are nothing short of amazing, and while people

TUESDAY th Evan Eastmoore (6 ) Nancy Gauvreau th th (13 & 20 ) th Nick LeValley (27 ) 7‐10 PM

WEDNESDAY Savanah Brady & Zak Yoder 7‐10 PM

sometimes tend to bestow this prediction a bit too freely, it really is incredibly likely … maybe predestined … that this group is going to go far, contribute much, and if you’re hip to it now you’ll be able to say you knew and heard them when. We wish them all the best, but selfishly kind of dread the day when the free shows in the intimate venues become a memory. Get it while you can because the early Bird fan… no, just kidding, we won’t do that… but DO hear them now because, in all seriousness, The Bird Tribe is going to be flying way beyond Siesta Key one day soon.

Where to hear them in Siesta Village this month: Gilligan’s November 4 and 18, 6 to 10 p.m. Blasé Café November 25 from 7 to 10 p.m.

THURSDAY Rob Viola (1, 8 & 15) th Nancy Gauvreau (29 ) 7‐10 PM

RPM LIVE: 6‐10 PM

RPM LIVE ‐ 6‐10 PM DJ Nate – 10 PM

Lelu’s Coffee Lounge In the Village 941-346-5358

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village 941‐346‐5443

1‐5 PM: th Cabana Dogs (5 ) th Rob Viola (12 ) th Frankie Lombardi (19 ) th David Morris (26 ) Al Donadi 7‐11 PM

1‐5 PM: th Rob Viola (6 ) J. Gilton (13 & 27) th Vince Berardi (20 ) Open mic night 7‐11 PM

THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941-349-6311

Karaoke Mondays 9 PM ‐ Midnight

THE COTTAGE In the Village 941-312-9300

Live Music 6-9 PM

THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL In the Village 941-349-6800

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30pm 7-10pm

Turtle Beach Grill Southern end of SK 941‐349‐2280 SAND DOLLAR POOL BAR @ Best Western Plus 6600 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota 941‐924‐4900 BOATYARD WATERFRONT BAR & GRILL 1500 Stickney Pt. Rd. 941‐921‐6200 CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey 941‐966‐1901

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

1‐5 PM: Deven Starr (7 & 21) Frankie Ray (14 & 28) Kettle of Fish 7‐11 PM

Mike Tozier & Chris Otto 5‐8:30 PM

Dezi (Island Sounds) 5‐8:30 PM

1‐5 PM Whiteleather (2, 23 & 30)

1‐5 PM: Dana & Co. FolkLab 7‐11 PM

2‐6 PM Whiteleather (9 & 16)

8‐Midnight nd Big Daddy Boys (2 ) th Last Minute Band (9 ) th Deven Starr Band (16 ) th Messenger Band (23 ) th Charlie Morris Band (30 ) 8 – 11 PM: New Divide (2 & 30) th No Filter (9 ) th Torched (16 ) rd TL (23 ) Live DJ 11 PM ‐2 AM

SATURDAY rd T‐Bone Major 7 (3 ) Lady B & the Buzz th Th (10 & 24 ) th Goodbyeddie (17 ) 7‐10 PM LIVE MUSIC (3‐7 PM) DJ K Conn (10 PM) PEDRO: 1 PM LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM DJ KConn – 10 PM

SUNDAY Alex Ross Mojo Revival th th (4 & 18 ) th Lisa Ridings Band (11 ) th Bird Tribe (25 ) 7‐10 PM See above article BREE (3‐7 PM) 1 PM LIVE MUSIC LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM DJ Tuesday – 10 PM

Eddie James Jazz Band 7‐10 PM

1‐5 PM: Bri Rivera (3 & 17) Evan Eastmore (10 & 24) Mike Tozier 8‐Midnight

10 AM 1 PM Mike Tozier (4 & 18) Vince Colaiocco (11 & 25) 2‐6 PM Blue Mason Barter th (25 only) 7 ‐11 PM: The Whole Band (4 & 18) Hatley Band (11 & 25)

8 –11 PM: rd TL (3 ) th 22N (10 ) th Sweet Spot (17 ) th Mixed Signal (24 ) Live DJ: 11 PM‐2 AM

8 PM ‐Midnight Propaganjah (4 & 11) th Nostaljah (18 ) th Jah Movement (25 )

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 7-10 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

Live Music 1 – 4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM –midnight

Live Music 1-4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM - midnight

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

KARAOKE 9 PM – CLOSE

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐6 PM

Joker Duo 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐7 PM

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:30 – 6:30 PM 7-10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

KARAOKE 9 PM – CLOSE LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM LIVE MUSIC 5‐9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM DJ KConn – 10 PM

Listen on www.youtube.com by searching The Bird Tribe for connections to: WMNF 88.5 hour long live show Stars in Disguise tracks Earlier performances

DJ Coz 10 PM

Callie & The Whole Band 7‐10 PM

For CDs, general info and more: www.thebirdtribe.com

DJ Coz or DJ Kensi 9 PM – 2 AM

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10 PM

FRIDAY

LIVE MUSIC (3‐7 PM) DJ TJ (10 PM)

Rodney Shenk: 6‐10 PM

BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941‐349‐3885 SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941‐349‐3885

www.siestasand.net

By Charmaine Engelsman-Robins

The Bird Tribe

CLUB

941.349.0194

RPM 5‐9 PM

Bri Rivera 5‐8:30 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3‐6 PM Richey Kicklighter Band 5‐9 PM LIVE MUSIC 4‐8 PM

Above information is subject to change. We suggest calling venues for confirmation.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Humor A very successful lawyer parked his brand new Jag XK-8 in front of the office, ready to show it off to his colleagues. As he got out, a truck came along, too close to the curb, and completely tore off the driver’s door of the Jag. The counselor immediately grabbed his cell phone, dialed 911, and it wasn’t more than 5 minutes before a policeman pulled up. Before the cop had a chance to ask any questions, the lawyer started screaming hysterically. His Jag, which he had just picked up the day before, was now completely ruined and would never be the same, no matter how the body shop tried to make it new again. After the lawyer finally wound down from his rant, the cop shook his head in disgust and disbelief. “I can’t believe how materialistic you lawyers are,” he said. “You are so focused on your possessions that you don’t notice anything else.” “How can you say such a thing?” asked the lawyer. The cop replied, “Didn’t you know that your left arm is missing from the elbow down? It must have

been torn off when the truck hit you.” “Oh, no!!” screamed the lawyer. “Where’s my Rolex?” Finding one of her students making faces at others on the playground, Mrs. Smith stopped to gently reprove the child. Smiling sweetly, the teacher said, “Little Johnny, when I was a child, I was told that if I made ugly faces, it would freeze and I would stay like that.” Little Johnny looked up and replied, “Well, Mrs. Smith, you can’t say you weren’t warned.” A man boards an airplane and takes his seat. As he settles in, he glances up and sees a very beautiful woman boarding the plane. He soon realizes she is heading straight towards his seat. Lo and behold, she takes the seat right beside his. Eager to strike up a conversation, he blurts out, “Business trip or vacation?” She turns, smiles and says, “Business. I’m going to the annual

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE... MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

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Nymphomaniac Convention in Chicago.” He swallows hard. Here is the most gorgeous woman he has ever seen sitting next to him and she’s going to a meeting for nymphomaniacs! Struggling to maintain his composure, he calmly asks “What’s your business role at this convention?” “Lecturer”, she says. “I use my experience to debunk some of the popular myths about sexuality.” “Really”, he says, “what myths are those?” “Well”, she explains, “one popular myth is that African American men are the most well endowed when, in fact, it’s the Native American Indian who is most likely to possess that trait. Another popular myth is that Frenchmen are the best lovers, when actually it is the men of Jewish descent. However, we have found that the best potential lover in all categories is the Southern @#%$.” Suddenly the woman becomes a little uncomfortable and blushes. “I’m sorry”, she says. “I shouldn’t be discussing this with you. I don’t even know your name!” “Tonto”, the man says, “Tonto Goldstein. But my friends call me Bubba.” From the NORTHWEST FLORIDA Daily News comes this story of a Crestview couple who drove their car to Wal-Mart, only to have their car break down in the parking lot. The man told his wife to carry on with the shopping while he fixed the car in the lot. The wife returned later to see a small group of people near the car. On closer inspection, she saw a pair of male legs protruding from under the chassis. Although the man was in shorts, his lack of underpants turned private parts into glaringly public ones. Unable to stand the embarrassment, she dutifully stepped forward, quickly put her hand UP his shorts, and tucked everything back into place. On regaining her feet, she looked across the hood and found herself staring at her husband who was standing idly by. The mechanic, however, had to have three stitches in his forehead.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

...

Month e h T f o r e d n e t r a B

+ Beer Gulf Gate Food rasota, FL 34231 a S ., e v A r o ri e p 6528 Su

Name of Bartender: Courtney Hometown: Sarasota Congrats to our November bartender of the month. Courtney bartends at Gulf Gate Food + Beer, located at 6528 Superior Avenue, Sarasota, 34231, in the Gulf Gate District. Courtney grew up right here in the Sarasota area and loves her two girls. Here’s a quick highlight about Courtney and Gulf Gate Food + Beer. Q: What’s your bartending experience and how long have you worked at GULF GATE FOOD + BEER? What drink have you perfected? A: I’ve been bartending for 13 years and working at Gulf Gate Food + Beer since we opened two months ago. My favorite cocktail to make is called, “Berry White Girl.” Q: What is the strangest or funniest experience you witnessed or were party to at work? A: SO… (Sigh) one time I mistook two female partners for mother and daughter. The rest of their lunch visit was pretty awkward. #EpciFail Q: Any hobbies, goals, etc. you enjoy when not working? A: Food! Food is my hobby. My main goal is to raise my two daughters to be decent and respectful human beings. Q: How would you describe yourself? A: I’m very outgoing, ambitious, and adventurous. I also think I’m pretty damn funny. Q: What makes Gulf Gate Food + Beer a special place to visit? A: Our menu is a BOMB! I usually tell people it’s very eclectic but it’s everything you didn’t even know you wanted. PLUS, our staff is amazing. Q: What specialty drink is Gulf Gate Food + Beer noted for? A: We’re noted for the “Berry White Girl” and the “Mimosa Nights” are cool too! Q: When is the best time for locals and visitors to enjoy your company at Gulf Gate Food + Beer. A: I’m here anytime between 11 am – 2 am. No…seriously, we’re still singing and cooking.

Karaoke Thursday, Friday & Saturday

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE

Piccolos Italian Market & Deli (G-47) carries a full line of imported cheeses, fresh baked bread daily, homemade sausages, fresh mozzarella, and numerous hard to get items. They now carry Khorasan Wheat which is an ancient and organic grain. Their deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasagna and baked ziti. And, you cannot leave without trying their cannoli filled with their own homemade cannoli cream or the tiramisu or Sfogliatelle from Brooklyn. Here is where you will find great Italian specialty gourmet items without the gourmet price. Tony’s Chicago Beef Company (S-16) is owned and operated by true Chicagoans. Dedicated to deliver Chicago’s best food - Chicago style Hot Dogs wit’ the works... Dragged through the garden on poppy seed buns with fresh cut fries, Italian Beef Sandwiches anyway you like, dipped or dry, sweet or hot. All served in true Authentic Chicago Style. Sarasota Brewing Co. (G-4) Sarasota’s first micro brew pub always has something new to offer. From over 20 seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year, the Brewing Company always has at least five unique brews online as well as several favorites from around the world. Established in 1989, their menu has been a winner in the Reader’s Choice Awards of the Sarasota Herald Tribune featuring their mouth watering burgers, Chicago style Pizzas, and Chicago beef sandwiches. With dozens of televisions, it’s a great place to catch a game with friends and family. 1

West End Pub (G-49) Where else can you watch your favorite game with a great selection of beers, wines, and liquors served by a friendly staff AND where you’re allowed to bring your own restaurant or deli food? Right here. The Shop SRQ (G-2) Local owners, Erick and Dawn use a back-to-basics approach to grooming with precise attention to detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. Their old school barber traditions, clean contemporary shop, coupled with their southern hospitality and humor are what separates them from the rest. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. - Fri. 8:30am - 6pm, Sat., 8:30am - 3pm. (Nov. 1st - May 30th) and Sat., 8:30am - 1pm (Jun. 1st - Oct. 31st). Closed on Sundays and Mondays. 6625 Gateway Ave, 941-626-4894. At the original Word of Mouth Restaurant (G-31), every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor to each specially crafted variety of freshly baked muffins to the signature menu items. This small diner is where the locals come to eat breakfast and lunch. Each staff member works hard to make sure you receive the best service and quality food so you’ll want to return often. Take a look at their mouth-watering menu at www.originalwordofmouth. com. Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8AM-2PM. 6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, 34231, 941-925-2400. Pride of the South (S-34) has been awarded Top Barbeque in Sarasota for 2016 by Trip Advisor and Yelp. 2

Michaels

Ba Am nk o eri f ca

Panera Bread

Bed Bath & Beyond

This section helps highlight what you’ll find within this walkable Gulf Gate shopping Village.

Ross

Dress for Less

Iberia Bank

Five Below 1

G16 G15 G14 G13 G12 G11 G10 G9 G8 G7 G6 G5 G4 G3 G2 G1

G24

S59 S58 S57 S56 S55 S54 S53 S52 S51 S50 S49 S48 S47 S46 S45 S44 S43 S42 S41 S40 S39 S38 S37 S36 S35 S34 S33 S32 S31

G23 G22 G21 G20 G19 G18 G17

S30 S29 S28 S27 S26 S25 S24 S23 S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 S10 S9 S8

S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1

Gulf Gulf Gate Gate Drive Drive

GG1 GG2 GG3 GG4 GG5 GG6 GG7 GG8 GG9 GG10 GG11 GG12 GG13 GG14 GG15 GG16 GG17 GG18 GG19 GG20 GG21 GG22 GG23 GG24 GG25 GG26 GG27 GG28 GG29 GG30 GG31 GG32 GG33 GG34 GG35 GG36 GG37 GG38 GG39 GG40 GG41 GG42 GG43 GG44 GG45 GG46 GG47 GG48 GG49 GG50 GG51 GG52 GG53 GG54

Lo Ho ng rn

Marshall’s

Mall Mall Drive Drive

G50 G49 G48 G47 G46 G45 G44 G43 G42 G41 G40 G39 G38 G37 G36 G35 G34 G33 G32 G31 G30 G29 G28 G27 G26 G25

Superior Avenue

Beall’s Outlet

M22 M21 M20 M19 M18 M17 M16 M15 M14 M13 M12 M11 M10 M9 M8

Books-AMillion

Publix

Gateway Avenue

Original Word of Mouth 6604 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231

G-4

PICCOLO

SRQ

Italian Market & Deli

THE SHOP SRQ 6625 Gateway Ave.

Traditional, Old School Barber Shop 15 Years + Experience

www.TheShopSrq.com

& Vegetarian Sandwiches

941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656

Authentic New York Italian Market & Deli We carry a full line of Imported Cheeses, Boars Head Luncheon Meats, Pasta, Olive Oil, Assorted Imported Olives, Khorasan Wheat (ancient & organic grain), and more. GG-46 G-47 Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price

Come See Our New Location Store Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am - 6pm 6518 Gateway Ave.

941-923-2202

www.PiccoloMarket.com

G-2

“We Straight Razor Shave”

Hot or Cold

S-16

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1

Hooters

Sun Trust

Stein Mart

Sarasota Pavilion is a popular shopping destination for numerous locals and visitors alike. Its prime location is close enough to the island for frequent trips with a nice selection of chain stores set in one convenient location. But what truly lends to the uniqueness of this district is the host of small, locally owned, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, and neighborhood bars bordering this pavilion. It makes for a fun and rewarding shopping experience. Over 150 businesses make up this district.

HOURS: Monday - Sunday 8:00AM to 2PM www.originalwordofmouth.com

GULF GATE

G-31

941-925-2400

Continued on the next page

Eat Where The Locals Eat!

It has been awarded for the best Southern Hospitality. Pride of the South has a brisket BLT, hands down, one of the best sandwiches you ever tasted. The smoked chicken wings are unbelievable. Backed up with the pulled pork sandwiches, the smoked bologna, the smoked turkey, the collard greens, fried corn on the cob, fried okra, fried green tomatoes, and one of the best mac ‘n cheese you ever tasted. We do catering with no limit to the size of the group. Come in and follow your nose to 6616 Superior Ave, Sarasota, FL 34231. Call (941)926-0099. See you soon. One Minute Key Shop (GG-51): Left your keys in the car? No worries, the One Minute Key Shop will help you safely unlock and retrieve your keys. They specialize in high security locks, keys, re-keying, master keying, and safes for residential, commercial or automotive. Give them a call at 941-924-8020 or visit their showroom where they have a large display of locks and safes. 2120 Gulf Gate Drive. Solorzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-32): At every Solorzano’s, they offer an experience familiar to those who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their recipes and techniques have been perfected through three long generations based on the traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 4:00 a.m. 6670 Superior Ave., 941-924-5800.

• No Appointment Needed •

TONSORIAL ARTISTRY BY ERICK & DAWN

Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 11/1 - 5/30; 8:30-3 PM Sat. 6/1 - 10/31; 8:30 AM - 1 PM

S-34

Catering Available

We Put the South in Your Mouth 6616 Superior Ave. Sarasota

941.926.0099

COUPON

FREE SIDE With the purchase of ANY entreé

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Island pet blessings celebrate patron saint Father Michael Cannon of St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church and Rector Wayne Farrell along with Rev. Ralph McGimpsey of St. Boniface Episcopal Church once again celebrated patron Saint Francis

Island Chatter Normally the meeting is held the first Thursday of the month. The new date for November will be Thursday November 8. The meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. at St. Boniface Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road in the Parish Hall.

Beach Club damaged On Monday October 22 an elderly woman accidently placed her car in Drive while attempting to back out of the parking lot by Coldwell Banker on Ocean Blvd. The car rammed into the north end of the outside of the Beach Club in the Village. Fortunately no one was injured.

Bank closes on Siesta Key On October 16, The Bank of America located at 1237 Stickney Point Road, closed its Siesta Key branch sandwiched between CBs Outfitters and the Daiquiri Deck. A quick look at the current assessed value of this property on the County tax rolls, show that it is appraised at $1,538,400. The big question, what will happen to this property?

Continued from page 7

SKA membership drive It’s time to renew your SKA membership for 2019. SKA’s costs have gone up since we established our $30 annual fee in 2012, so we will have to raise our fee to $35 in the New Year. BUT — if you renew or join before the end of 2018, you can still pay just $30. Please renew now to save us the $1000 cost of mailing renewal letters so we can use this money for our advocacy programs on your behalf. The SKA Board of Directors thanks you for your membership! To join please go online and enroll at www.SiestaKeyAssociation.com or mail your check to PO Drawer 35200 • Sarasota, FL 34242. You can contact SKA at 941-364-4880 • info@siestakeyassociation.com

Court refuses rehearing in Ramirez civil case A 12th Judicial Circuit Court judge has denied Siesta resident Lourdes Ramirez’s motion for a rehearing in her civil complaint against Robert Waechter, also of Siesta Key, and his business, RWR Installations.

DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE Continued from the previous page

Wild Ginger Apothecary has been successfully providing sustainable, ethically produced, and nontoxic products for beauty, home and nutrition to the health conscious consumers of Sarasota since October of 2014. Their latest offerings is a CBD Boutique area featuring hundreds of hemp and CBD products. Wild Ginger Apothecary also offers classes and workshops for a variety of audiences on topics that cover lifestyle, creativity, health, and more in the Studio + Lounge. Z6557 Superior Ave. 941-312-5630, www. woldgingerapothecary.com Gulf Gate Barber Shop has been an institution in the community for years, owned by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. If you have been a longtime patron of the former Siesta Key Village Barber Shop Scott Reich, you can find him here. The two barbers bring over 70 years of knowledge to your haircut. See their ad in centerspread pages of this edition. 6675 Gateway Ave in Gulf Gate, 941-809-9028.

MORE THAN 100 OPTIONS TO NATURALLY RELIEVE YOUR PAIN, ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION • The largest and most reliable CBD selection in Sarasota - with over 100 affordable CBD options for your family - and pets! • FREE one-on-one consultations with health experts • Legal in all 50 states and available without prescription 6557 SUPERIOR AVENUE SARASOTA, FL • 34231

COMMUNITY FOR HEALTH + WELLNESS

of Assisi with a pet blessing ceremony at their respective churches. The pet blessing takes place each year in early October.

OPEN TUESDAY – FRIDAY 10-6 PM SATURDAY 10-4 PM

941.312.5630 WILDGINGERAPOTHECARY.COM

In a Sept. 24 order, Circuit Judge Andrea McHugh offered little more than the statement of denial. In accord with standard judicial procedure, her order did reference the fact that Ramirez’s motion was filed on Aug. 14 and that the Court had reviewed the motion and file. Waechter has asked the court for attorneys’ fees and costs in the case. It revolves around Waechter’s having used a prepaid credit card to make contributions in Ramirez’s name to Democratic candidates running for office in 2012. He pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge in 2013 and paid tens of thousands of dollars in fines. Ramirez, who is a Republican, alleged in her civil complaint that his actions resulted in damage to her 2014 campaign for the District 4 seat on the County Commission. She lost that race to Alan Maio of Nokomis, who is seeking reelection this year. As Wacheter’s attorney in the civil case, Morgan Bentley of the Sarasota firm Bentley & Bruning has asked the court to approve attorneys’ fees of $34,370.92 and costs of $5,300.14.

Swell Things opens in Siesta Key Village A new retail women’s clothing shop opened up in Davidson Plaza in the former Lotus shop. The store is located at 5118 Ocean Blvd.

Cosentino appeals dismissal of North Beach Road case against county Siesta resident Mike Cosentino has appealed the 12th Judicial Circuit Court’s dismissal of his North Beach Road complaint against Sarasota County to the Second District Court of Appeal. After 12th Judicial Circuit Court Judge Frederick Mercurio issued a final judgment on Sept. 11 in favor of the county, Cosentino stated he would appeal the decision. He claims Mercurio incorrectly took the view of the county in this last part of the case remaining against the county. The county’s argument was that Cosentino did not have “standing” to pursue a claim against the county. “Standing” is a legal term that typically centers on a requirement that a plaintiff has sustained or will sustain direct injury or harm because of an action. Cosentino said, “In layperson’s terms, the Court has ruled that the County’s actions are none of my business.” He added that he was confident of prevailing at the appellate court level.

The case revolves around Cosentino’s argument that the county never should have vacated a 373-foot segment of North Beach Road.

City moving ahead on emergency Lido project Sarasota City Manager Tom Barwin reported that City Engineer Alexandrea DavisShaw and Col. Andrew D. Kelly, commander of the USACE’s Jacksonville District,

recently signed the agreement for the long-term Lido Key Renourishment Project. Barwin added in his Sept. 28 newsletter that the project “will begin next September” or in the fall of 2019. In the meantime, the city has awarded a $3.9-million contract to a North Carolina firm to dredge between 150,000 and 200,000 cubic yards of sand from New Pass for an emergency project on Lido Key, Barwin noted. Continued on page 33

Island Churches: • Siesta Key Presbyterian Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave, Siesta Key, 941-349-1166 www.siestakeychapel.org • St. Michael’s Catholic Church 5394 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4174 www.stmichaelssiesta.com • St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org Off- Island: •Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors) 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org • St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive) 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org • The Superior Word - Rev. Charlie Garrett Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in God’s word. 6512 Superior Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34231 • First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. 941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com

simple cremations

740

simple burials

1,195

Online arrangements available Sarasota (941) 312-6371 | Manatee (941) 213-9234

SoundChoiceCremation.com

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Siesta Key Crystal Classic

International Sand Sculpting Festival November 9-12, 2018 • SiestaKeyCrystalClassic.com

Welcome 2018 Master Sculptors

Brian Wigelsworth; Siesta Key, FL Sandventure Crew Professional Sand Sculpting Services; Owner The Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival; Creator and Sand Coordinator Gidget’s Coastal Provisions Owner with wife, Trudy Wigelsworth

ADMISSION & HOURS 10 am - 5 pm Friday & Monday 10 am - 9 pm Saturday & Sunday $ 10 ea One-day adult admission $ 5 ea One day ages 5 - 17 admission $ One day Seniors 65+ & Veterans 8 ea

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE John Patti & Sunny Jim Ari and The Alibis Island Chill Band Twinkle Reverend Barry & The Funk Tropical Ave. Band Kettle of Fish Master Sculptor Awards 22N A Train

Friday Friday Saturday Saturday Saturday Sunday Sunday Sunday Sunday Monday

11:30-1:30 2:00-4:30 10:00-1:00 2:00-5:00 6:00-9:00 10:00-1:00 2:00-5:00 3:00 6:00-9:00 12:00-3:00

Billy Jack, co-host of the popular Jones and Company morning show on 107.9 WSRZ will be on location Saturday, Nov. 10th from 1-3pm.

Abe Waterman Canada

John Gowdy Italy

Delayne Corbett Canada

Jeff Strong USA

Melineige Beauregard Canada

Andrius Petkkus Lithuania

Steve Topazio USA

Ron MacDonald USA

Peter Vogelaar Canada

JOOheng Tan Singapore

Rachel Clara Stubbs United Kingdom

Jakub Zimacek Czech Republic

Bruce Phillips USA

DaeYoung Ji South Korea

Kirk Rademaker USA

Matt Long USA

Jihoon Choi South Korea

Maxim Gazendim The Netherlands

Karen Fralich Canada

Brian Turnbough USA

Jan Zelinka Czech Republic

Walter McDonald USA

Dan Belcher USA

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Craig Mutch Canada

16 sculptures this year!

• Open until 9PM Saturday & Sunday with live music & lighted sculptures • Party tent open until 9PM Saturday & Sunday • Vendor Village - Over 65 vendors! Retail, Food, Beer • Quick sand speed sculpting, Sand sculpting lessons, Free amateur sand sculpting competition Open • Eight doubles teams, Eight solo artists Why drive when you can take SCAT (route 11) or the FREE SK Breeze Trolley right to the beach!

Sat & Sun until 9PM LIVE MUSIC LIGHTED SCULPTURES PARTY TENT

Questions? 941-349-3800 Full Festival Schedule at SiestaKeyCrystalClassic.com

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Water World

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Report

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

Matt, Chris, Anna, and Dink from Siesta Spirits come to Big Water Fish Market for a stone crab extravaganza False albacore should be found off of Siesta Key beaches in Nov.

November offers Siesta Key anglers diverse opportunities. A wide variety of species are available this month, and multiple techniques will be successful. The key is adapting to the conditions; weather will become a factor at times. Water temperatures will be falling as it cools off and the days become shorter, and this will trigger fish to feed. Both Big Pass and New Pass will be productive spots to fish this month. Pompano will be targeted by many anglers, along with Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and ladyfish. Drifting with the tide and bouncing a jig off the bottom is a proven technique to catch pompano and other species. Yellow, white, and chartreuse pompano jigs work very well in deep, swift water. These jigs are small and compact, allowing them to sink quickly. These same jigs are effective in shallow water and on bars when cast out and retrieved back to the boat using short hops. Spoons and Rapala plugs are very effective when breaking fish are seen working in the passes. Pompano will also be taken on the deep grass flats, as will speckled trout, bluefish, mackerel, jack crevelle and other species. Soft plastics such as the Bass Assassin Sea Shad baits on a ¼ ounce jig head are extremely productive and a lot of fun to fish. A live shrimp either free lined or fished under a cork is the top choice for anglers who prefer live bait. Fish will begin moving south from the passes to the flats between Stickney Pt. and Blackburn Pt. and will be scattered over a large area. Successful anglers will fish quickly until the fish are located. Redfish schools will be thinning out in the shallow water, but there will still be plenty of fish in the pot holes, along mangrove shorelines, under docks, and around oyster bars. Rapala plugs, weedless gold spoons, and Bass Assassin Elite Shiners on a Pro Elite jig head are all excellent choices for probing the shallow flats. These same lures will also catch snook, along with speckled trout and jack crevelle. Snook will be migrating through these areas on their way to their winter haunts and will be feeding heavily. Points, bars, and docks with current are prime ambush spots for game fish. Large live shrimp are deadly when fished under docks, although it will not allow anglers to cover as much water. Night fishing under lighted docks and bridges will also produce a lot of snook this month. King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, false albacore, cobia, and sharks will bend rods and test drags in the inshore Gulf of Mexico, provided the severe fronts stay away. Point of Rocks on Siesta Key is a prime fall spot to either sight cast to breaking fish or troll plugs and spoons. Live bait will also produce, especially once fish are located. Live blue runners and threadfins slow trolled on a “stinger” rig will catch some very nice kings along with sharks. Drifting a live shrimp or small bait fish will catch plenty of Spanish and albies.

OYSTERS, CLAMS AND CRABS – OH MY It’s that time of year. The month of November will bring us shellfish junkies some special treats from the sea. Stone Crabs are back in season and despite the rumors that it is not going to be a good year for our famous Floridian crab, I beg to differ. Local Stone Crabs have been available at your Big Water Fish Market almost on a daily basis just like last year, and the year before that and the year before that. Also, it’s the beginning of Oyster, Clams, and shrimp season. All this good news and the holidays to follow is almost more than this writer can bare. I’ll tell you what I’m going to do, I’m gonna have a sit down with a shellfish steam pot to think and drink while I reflect on the year of 2018 and look forward to 2019. OYSTERS: Local Oysters will begin to come out of Florida to Louisiana panhandle area now that the waters are cooling down and have settled from Hurricane Michael. Oysters are plentiful on the island as SKOB and Captain Curt’s do a good happy hour, Monks steamer bar in Gulf gate does an excellent job with fresh shucked oysters right in front of you (try the Monkafellers) and The Big Water has just introduced their Oyster Bourdain for the fall/winter. This is a Jack Hodges recipe named after the late and great story teller and foodie Anthony Bourdain. Steamed Oysters topped with homemade pesto, bacon bits, and melted Havarti cheese. Tony would have been proud. CLAMS: Local little necks, middle necks,

and top necks along with New England steamer clams and Cherry stones are now available. There is nothing like a plate of “drunken clams” (clams steamed in white wine, garlic, butter and parsley) and a beer. Unfortunately if you eat your clams raw you have to go to Boston as I don’t know of anyone on the island that shucks clams raw. STONE CRABS: No offense to my friends from Maryland, but people, why would you waste your time on blue crab picking for subpar meat for hours when you can have a Jumbo Stone Crab cracked and served to you with warm butter or a mustard sauce. That doesn’t make any sense. Although sometimes tough to find and a bit expensive stone crab claws are worth every penny. SHRIMP: Key West Pinks, Rock shrimp and Panhandle Reds are available all winter. The Pinks are your traditional large pink, firm, sweet and delicious while your Reds come from deep-water and have a different flavor. Red shrimp taste like a crawfish lobster combination and have a bit of a softer texture. My favorite, Rock Shrimp, comes peeled and deveined for you because of its hard shell. These tasty little sea nuggets are great for seafood pasta or making shrimp salad.

Live Happy…Eat Shellfish! Scott Dolan Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key 941-554-8101 www.BigWaterFishMarket.com

NOVEMBER 2018 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

November 2018

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

6:28a

High Tide 2.0

10:04p

High Tide 1.6

1:21a

Low Tide 1.5

3:18p

Low Tide 0.2

7:41a

6:46p

1:26a

3:06p

8:22a

1.9

10:29p

1.7

3:18a

1.3

4:16p

0.3

7:42a

6:46p

2:29a

3:50p

9:54a

1.9

10:52p

1.8

4:35a

1.0

5:04p

0.5

7:43a

6:45p

3:32a

4:31p

10:05a

1.9

10:15p

2.0

4:32a

0.6

4:45p

0.6

6:44a

5:44p

3:34a

4:10p

11:06a

1.8

10:37p

2.1

5:21a

0.4

5:18p

0.7

6:44a

5:44p

4:35a

4:48p

11:59a

1.8

10:59p

2.2

6:05a

0.2

5:46p

0.9

6:45a

5:43p

5:36a

5:26p

12:48p

1.7

11:22p

2.3

6:47a

0.0

6:10p

1.0

6:46a

5:42p

6:35a

6:06p

1:35p

1.6

11:47p

2.4

7:26a

-0.1

6:32p

1.1

6:46a

5:42p

7:34a

6:47p

2:23p

1.5

8:05a

-0.2

6:54p

1.2

6:47a

5:41p

8:32a

7:31p

12:15a

2.4

3:15p

1.5

8:46a

-0.1

7:17p

1.3

6:48a

5:41p

9:28a

8:17p

12:46a

2.3

4:16p

1.4

9:29a

-0.1

7:46p

1.3

6:49a

5:40p

10:20a

9:06p

1:21a

2.2

5:30p

1.4

10:16a

0.0

8:27p

1.3

6:49a

5:40p

11:10a

9:57p

2:03a

2.1

6:42p

1.5

11:09a

0.1

9:44p

1.4

6:50a

5:39p

11:56a

10:48p

2:56a

1.9

7:29p

1.5

12:07p

0.2

11:44p

1.4

6:51a

5:39p

12:38p

11:41p

4:12a

1.7

8:02p

1.6

1:06p

0.3

6:52a

5:38p

1:17p

5:56a

1.6

8:29p

1.6

1:33a

1.2

2:02p

0.4

6:52a

5:38p

1:53p

12:33a

7:37a

1.6

8:53p

1.7

2:49a

1.0

2:51p

0.5

6:53a

5:37p

2:28p

1:26a

8:55a

1.6

9:16p

1.8

3:43a

0.7

3:34p

0.6

6:54a

5:37p

3:02p

2:19a

9:57a

1.6

9:38p

1.9

4:27a

0.5

4:11p

0.6

6:55a

5:37p

3:36p

3:14a

10:51a

1.6

10:00p

2.0

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Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations: Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941-870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

Arts on the Horizon He won and lost... so that we could win On November 11th, Veterans Day, many will think of our current set of wars - Iraq 1, Iraq 2 and Syria. Yet many more fought, were injured, died in or were traumatized during the Vietnam War, the Korean Conflict and World War II. As we age, memories tend to fade - little details slip away names of school mates, faces of co-workers, places we’ve been, things we’ve done and, unfortunately, events we should celebrate - they slowly disappear. An event is not just one thing, like a face or place, but a combination of all things - to reference a movie title - The Good, The Bad, and the Ugly. Good in that we, as a nation (and, hopefully, our ideals) have survived. Bad, as in all the terrible things that happen in war. Ugly as in all those things that happen in war that are so much worse than Bad. The Iraq wars, our involvement in Syria, Vietnam, Korea and World War II are events in that they encompass so much, and so many, that we should not forget. Thus we celebrate Veterans Day. But before we called it Veterans Day, it was called Armistice Day, the day the fighting stopped in World War I. For some, the fighting in that war stopped a bit earlier than for others. At the start of the conflict, James Davidson Heriot and his brother had tossed a coin to see who would fight for our nation’s ideals and James had “won” the toss. He, like so many others, trained by marching around with, and aiming to shoot, a wooden rifle, as the US was not prepared for that war and there were no video games on which he could practice and hone his skills. At the end of his first few months in France his unit was pinned down, and being picked off by, a German machine gun nest located on top of the hill they were to take. Alone, Corporal Heriot, with fixed bayonet, charged that gun emplacement and

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By Rodger Skidmore

forced the enemy to surrender. Later that same day, while wounded, he charged another machine gun nest and was killed. World War I ended 29 days later. Cpl. Heriot was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor and his body was returned home to Bishopville, Lee County, South Carolina in April of the following year. A statue sculpted by Mariah Kirby-Smith, commemorating Heriot’s life, titled The Last Letter Home, has just been completed at BronzArt here in Sarasota and is being installed in front of the Bishopville Cotton Museum for an unveiling on November 11th. A 40&8 - a railroad boxcar used in France during WWI to transport either 40 men or 8 horses to the front lines was given to each US state by the government of France when that war ended. The 40&8 given to South Carolina will be incorporated into this memorial with Cpl. Heriot writing his last letter while seated in front of it. More info at Bronzartfoundry. com.

Endless Summer... ...was a great movie about surfing spots around the world. However, the new exhibit at Selby Botanical Gardens is titled Endless Forms - because, basically, there are an endless number of species of orchids. Not really endless but over 27,000 different shapes, colors and forms does seem kind of endless (twice the number of bird species.) Some of the orchids on display at the Selby have flowers no larger than the head of a pin while others have leaves 5 feet long. One definition of endless is infinity so, naturally, they (the artistic staff at Selby) have formed orchids into a folded infinity symbol smack dab in the middle of the tropical conservatory, where the bulk of the

orchids are on display. Whenever one goes to the Orchid Show It seems astonishing that there are so many different varieties to see. And to smell - it is as if Greta Garbo had been in the room half an hour before - a subtle hint of sensuous mystery. In the Payne Mansion there are a number of older orchids on display - in triplicate. One version of each orchid is based on a field sketch that is completed and hand colored, often by the original discoverer; the second is a pressed version of the actual flower with scientific notation; and the third, an actual blossom preserved in alcohol spirits. The latter is supposed to last forever (infinity) as long as the vessel that contains it is topped off should any of the spirits evaporate. But there are a couple of new twists to the preservation game. One is a 3D image displayed on a screen: the orchid slowly rotates so that you can see all sides. The other is a similar image displayed flat on a table-like screen where, hands on, you can rotate the image while changing its size. Very high tech but so easy to handle. Of course there will be an Orchid Evening (November 7th) complete with cocktail reception and entertainment by the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School. While on the 14th there is a lecture on What Really Turned Darwin On. With so many mutations creating those 27,000 species, orchids gave Darwin many clues about the origin of the species. The Orchid Show runs through November 25th (Thanksgiving weekend.) Throughout November there are classes on painting, flower arranging, print making, yoga, aromatherapy, and photography. More information at Selby.org.

Combo Package Also on Thanksgiving Weekend (November 25th), there will be music and dance at the Sarasota Opera House. Specifically a tango mass - Martin Palmeri’s Misa a Buenos Aires - from Argentina, first

presented in a 17 country tour in 1996. This major composition was written for orchestra, chorus and solo voices and will be performed by Sarasota’s Key Chorale, led by Joseph Caulkins. The combination of the driving and twisting tango music with the chorale’s many voices should be most pleasing. Another piece, Misa Criolla by Ariel Ramirez seems to be a combination of South American guitars and percussion, blended with vocal overtones of Carmina Burana. Rounding things out are performances of two Astor Piazzolla pieces - Primavera Portena and Libertango. Joining the singers and other musicians will be dancers from the Sarasota Ballet in a piece choreographed by Elizabeth Bergmann. In addition, there will be a Behind the Music lecture one hour before the concert and a complimentary postconcert reception afterwards. Quite apart from the music the Key Chorale will be presenting in November is the music that they have presented previously. In addition to ticket information on their web site (KeyChorale.Org) there is information about their new CD - Arise: Choral music of the Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo. This includes two world premieres commissioned from Mr. Gjeilo. The Key Chorale is joined on this CD by members of the Sarasota Orchestra. The Chorale’s fundraiser, Perfect Pitch, will be held at the Sarasota Yacht Club on November 12th. Through May of 2019, the Key Chorale will be presenting an additional six concerts. The music will range from Christmas music, a concert honoring Heroes (our first responders), Mendelssohn’s Elijah, and Fauré’s Requiem, to their joining with the Circus Arts Conservatory under the big top at Benderson Park.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, please be sure to always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information. WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • FREE T’AI CHI CHIH - Siesta Beach, Access #5 - Every Monday, 15 minutes before sunset. Open to all, no experience necessary. Contact Diana Daffner 941-346-1024 for information. (Access #5 is in Siesta Village, where Beach Rd. meets Ocean Blvd.) • FREE YOGA - Mon.-Wed.-Fri.-Sat. 9 a.m. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station. Call 941-320-6693 to register or go to website for more info. www.yogaonsiestabeach.com/about • NIA - Tues. & Thurs., 9 a.m., Siesta Public Beach (yellow lifeguard chair). Contact Kathy Oravec at 941-724-9719 for more info or check website: www.nianow.com/kathy-oravec • SIESTA KEY BEACH HOOP JAMS – Every Tuesday one hour before Sunset on Siesta Key beach we gather for a community Hoop Jam. (Between the red lifeguard stand and the pavilion; around where the Sunday drum circle happens.) Register at: www.outwardspiral.net WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE: • Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavilion. You can participate or watch this weekly gathering and dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instrument, and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset. On The Beach… • NOVEMBER 3(SAT) 9:30-10:30AM / BEACH UNIVERSITY: Beach University presents “Native American Technology.” Though Beach University is not an official college, the environmental education program is free and open to the public. All are welcome to attend the hour-long outdoor sessions with exceptional instructors and hands-on curriculum. All courses relate to the coastal environment and how to best care for the ecology. Beach University will be held on the first Saturday of the month from November thru December. All classes are 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Road on Siesta Key. The classes are free and all held at the main pavilion.

No registration is required. Limited seating is available. Bringing your own chair is acceptable. For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000 and ask about “Beach University.” • NOV 3 (SAT) 5-9PM / MOONLIGHT MOVIES: Come and enjoy the movie Moana on the sand with friends and family starting at sunset. (Rain date: SUN., Nov. 4). Admission is free. Be sure to bring your blankets and beach chairs for this fun family event. • NOV 9 - 12 (Fri - Mon) Opens at 10AM daily / CRYSTAL CLASSIC MASTER SAND SCULPTING COMPETITION: This annual event brings some of the finest artists in the world to our beach. Live demonstrations of sand sculpting, vendors, food concessions, live music, and an amateur sand sculpting contest are all part of this beautiful event that promises some of the most stunning sand masterpieces. This event opens at 10 a.m. and closes 5 pm Friday and Monday and closes at 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday. See website for complete schedule, site map and ticket pricing as well as this year’s competing sand artists: www.siestakeycrystalclassic.com • NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 2 (FRI: 4-9PM; SAT & SUN: 11AM – 6PM) SIESTA BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL: FREE Admission. The event is a unique blending of food, music and visual entertainment, affording attendees a potpourri of delectable seafood creations and delicious drinks prepared by the top restaurants in Siesta Key and Sarasota. Combined with the mouth-watering foods will be outstanding musical performances by local and regional musicians in a diversity of genres from rock ‘n roll, jazz, calypso, steel pan, R&B, and Caribbean sounds. Also part of the event is a marketplace of arts, crafts and fine products. Experience delicious, freshly-cooked foods and cool refreshing drinks while relaxing to outstanding live musical performances. See website for more info: www.seafoodfestivals.com

Around the island… • WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET IN THE VILLAGE: Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Produce, Plants & Flowers, Music, Art, Organic Skincare, Italian Olive Oil, and Freshly Prepared Foods. Listen to live music while you shop. • KIDS RHYTHM JAM!™ – 11:30AM: Drumming Fun For Everyone!™ . Every Saturday and Tuesday. Everyone gets permission to play and make noise to create rhythm and song! Come & enjoy group drumming with your family and friends. $15/family - Positive RePercussions 5049 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village - (941) 677-3786. Please check out our wide variety of other programs at: www.positiverepercussions.com/calendar • OCTOBER 31 (WED) 3-6PM VILLAGE TRICK-OR-TREAT: Join the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and the whole Village of Siesta Key for a fun and safe event. Bring your little ones to trick or treat in Siesta Village along Ocean Blvd. and the surrounding streets. This free event provides a safe venue for children on Halloween. For more information contact the Chamber at (941) 349-3800. • NOVEMBER 17 (SAT) 3-6PM FLY FISHING SCHOOL: CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, 1249 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL has announced dates for their Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing schools for the upcoming fall through spring timeframe; Nov 17, 2018, Jan 19, Feb. 23, Mar. 16, and Apr 13, 2019. Located on Siesta Key, the schools will cover fly casting basics, line control, shooting line and the roll cast. Instructors, Capt. Rick Grassett and Capt. Ed Hurst, will also cover leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques. The course, designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, will focus on basics but also work with intermediate casters on correcting faults and improving casting skills. Cost for the schools, which will run from 8:30 AM to

2 PM, is $195 per person and includes the use of Orvis fly tackle and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 3494400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations. • NOVEMBER 24 (SAT) 5-9PM: LIGHT UP THE VILLAGE & PARADE: Festive décor and holiday atmosphere will light up Siesta Key. A community Christmas tree will be at the Village Gazebo. The Village Holiday Parade which will begin at Avenida del Mare and Beach Road at 5:30 PM traveling north on Beach Road onto Ocean Blvd. into the Village. Many businesses and local groups will be participating in the parade and welcoming Santa to Siesta Village. If you would like to participate in the parade, visit www. siestakeychamber.com and click on the scrolling event banner at the top of the home page. There is a $25.00 fee per entry and registration is required. Santa will arrive at the Siesta Center at approximately 6:15 PM to greet all children. The first 250 children to see him will receive gift bags donated by Beach Bazaar. At Siesta Center, there will also be face painting and activities. Photos may be taken with Santa, free of charge. Shops and restaurants will offer refreshments and special holiday bargains from 5 to 9 PM. There will also be live music at various venues, plus carolers and a martial arts demonstration. Free public transportation is provided courtesy of the Siesta Breeze Trolley from Turtle Beach to the Village (with multiple stops along the route, including Siesta Beach) making it easier for all to participate in the festivities. This festive event is sponsored by merchants, businesses, and friends of Siesta Key and is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Chamber Office at 941-349-3800, email events@siestakeychamber.com or visit www.siestakeychamber.com.

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Off Key

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

By Robert Frederickson

From Red Tide Hitting Home to RV’s and Bullies Which begs the question: how does something like “Survey Says...” A survey conducted by the Venice Area Chamber of Commerce found that more than two/thirds of 135 responding businesses reported suffering losses in August related to the area’s continuing red tide outbreak. Those businesses reflect a cross section of the local economy, with restaurants, shops and real estate agencies participating. In total, almost $1 million in lost revenues were reported when respondents compared August 2018 business results to the same month last year. The red tide outbreak has sporadically impacted the southwest Florida coastline for the better part of a year, making it one of the longest and broadest such outbreaks on record, with reports of blooms stretching intermittently from Naples beginning last fall and reaching north to St. Petersburg by late summer.

Sweetheart Deal? Restaurants on or near the water have been especially hard hit by the unappetizing stench associated with the red tide. But Sharkey’s on the Pier has an advantage over its competitors. According to the terms of its 2008 lease with the city of Venice, as reported in the Sarasota Herald Tribune, the restaurant enjoys a reduction in rent during red tide outbreaks. Now I like Sharkey’s. And I like Venice too. But I doubt I’d feel the same way if I owned a restaurant in town and had to compete with an establishment subsidized by my own (and my fellow citizens’) tax dollars. Just saying...

Motivated Seller? Robert Schneider, 59, headed to Lazy Days RV near the intersection of I-75 and I-4 in Seffner earlier this summer looking for a deal on an RV. He found just the model he was looking for: a gently used Winnebago model. He negotiated the price down a bit, agreeing to a final sales price of $246,000. So he pulled out his checkbook, wrote and signed a check for the full amount, jumped behind the wheel and drove off the lot, destination unknown. Trouble is, the check bounced. Now, three months after the fact, a warrant has been issued for Schneider’s arrest.

Island Chatter

this happen in the first place? I mean, I wrote a check recently for some minor repair work on my car at a local dealership and the process was only slightly less tortuous than the recent senate judiciary committee hearings to approve Brett Kavanaugh for the Supreme Court. Lazy Days employees told Tampa’s Fox TV affiliate they had no comment. Gee, now that’s a surprise. But I guess if you’re looking for an RV, Lazy Days is the place to go...I mean they must REALLY want to make a deal.

Things I Love About Texas... “I’ve lived long enough to know that there’s a bully on every block ready and willing to take advantage of anyone stupid enough to let them.” - An elderly southern woman calling in to the Mark Davis radio program, heard one summer afternoon while passing through Texas…

“No Soup for You!” Those fabulous self-appointed arbiters of what can and can’t be said in our brave new world (posing as journalists for a west coast periodical) have classified as verboten the following words and phrases: ‘Indian Summer,’ ‘Sitting Indian Style,’ ‘Off the Reservation,’ ‘Blackball,’ ‘Whitewash,’ and ‘Inmates Running the Asylum.’ That last one is particularly hard for me to accept, given it is the exact phrase that fits here.

Which Explains Why... ...eighty percent of Americans say they are fed up with political correctness. This according to the website moreincommon.com. It is the one issue in today’s fractious society that unites us across the board...young and old, black and white, republican and democrat, tall and short, wide and skinny... So why do so many of us care what a mendacious... minority...thinks? (I was going to say ‘mob,’ but that’s soon to be on the verboten list as well). Beats me… But I think the lady quoted above I heard while driving through Texas had it just about right with what she had to say about bullies...

Continued from page 29

That initiative is expected to be mostly completed by February 2019, Barwin added. The City Commission approved that project during its regular meeting on Sept. 17, though at the time, staff members reported, the two bids opened that day had not been vetted. Thus, staff members could not say with certainty whether the company submitting the $3.9-million bid would be awarded the contract.

Lighting up Siesta Key and Village Holiday Parade The 34th Annual Light Up Siesta Key and Village Holiday Parade will be held on Saturday, November 24, 2018 from 5 to 9 PM. Festive décor and holiday atmosphere will Light Up Siesta Key. A community Christmas tree will be at the Village Gazebo. Continued on page 36

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Yachting Capital of the World

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Wake & Shake Just roll out of bed...your hair looks great! Shampoo and towel dry.... and you’re done! The style is in the cut, not the blow-dry, so you don’t have to fuss with your hair to look good... even fine, limp or curly hair... and my new steam color process + Olaplex creates richer brunettes and spectacular blondes. The colors go deeper NEW LOCATION! and last longer, yet are far more gentle to the hair. By Appointment Only with Ian:

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43 HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 41 SIESTA KEY MARKET STATS PAGE 39 SAND CASTLES PAGE 38

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

Provided by Key Solutions Real Estate / www.keysolutionsrealestate.com

Following are properties sold on Siesta Key in the last 60 days, providing a snapshot of home values on the Key for both single family homes and condominiums.

HIGHEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY: 757 SIESTA KEY CIR: SOLD FOR: $950,000 Here is the boating water you have been looking for - on the Grand Canal with no bridges to the bay! This captivating, tropically landscaped, Key West style home is located on a cul-de-sac in one of the most desirable neighborhoods on Siesta Key. There is a warm sense of the classic waterside cottage with the red oak floors and the painted wood walls. The kitchen has been perfectly remodeled with Carrera marble countertops, backlit cabinets, stainless appliances, and a gas stove. The spacious living area opens to a backyard paradise with a large composite surface deck with trellis; a saline swimming pool; and a special gazebo perfect for entertaining. The master bedroom features an updated bath and a walk-in closet. There is a private upstairs bedroom and bath with its own balcony. The third bedroom is currently being used as an office/study with views of the water. The boat dock features an electric lift. Another nice feature is that HOA dues are optional. You will love this charming home with just the right amount of space and located on a spectacular spot on Siesta Key. The sale of this property came to $584.09 a square foot. Courtesy of Bright Realty.

LOWEST PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY PROPERTY: 752 TROPICAL CIR: SOLD FOR: $515,000 This massive but gorgeous four bedroom, two bath home on Siesta Key is tucked away from the road behind beautiful Florida foliage, providing a private oasis. The home has many featured upgrades, such as a wood burning fireplace, and a whole home alarm system. The open floor plan shows off the extensive amount of living space. The kitchen and living room have views of the private pool. The large living room also has an additional loft area. The home also features a bonus room with its own private entrance. The oversized garage also has pool access. This home is centrally located on beautiful Siesta Key, close to the best restaurants, shopping and the number one rated Siesta Key Beach! The sale of this property came out to $261.86 a square foot. Courtesy of Keller Williams. LOWEST PRICED CONDO: 5619 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #504: SOLD FOR: $364,000 Fantastic opportunity to buy a vacation home right across the street from America’s #1 beach, Siesta Key! Turnkey 2-bedroom, 2-bath, secondfloor condo overlooking the saltwater canal. Easy to care for tile floors throughout. Enjoy your morning coffee on the screened lanai on the water. Walk across the street to Siesta Public Beach for a quiet morning stroll on the beach and amazing sunsets in the evening. White Sands Village is a well-maintained complex offering an onsite rental office and two-week rentals. The association says the community pool is heated to 86 degrees in winter months.

HIGHEST PRICED CONDO: 6480 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #518: SOLD FOR: $1,450,000 This rarely available 3 bedroom, 3 1/2 bath with large loft area is located in the Siesta Breakers luxury condominium resort located directly on the Gulf with amazing Gulf views from every room in the spacious 2-story unit. Amenities include a large heated pool, spacious clubhouse, private white sand beach and lighted tennis courts. The sale on this unit came out to $595.00 a square foot. Courtesy of Michael Saunders.

Enjoy the recently renovated clubhouse and the many activities during season. The 11 boat docks will accommodate boats up to 22 feet and are available on a first come first served basis for $386 per year. Gas grills are provided for owners and renters to use. Pet-friendly for a dog or cat up to 25 lbs. Hop on the free trolley for a short ride to Siesta Village where you can enjoy great restaurants, bars, ice cream stores and shopping. Maintenance fee under $400 per month includes landscaping, lawn service, exterior building maintenance, water and sewer, pest control, cable, insurance on the building and heated community pool. The sale came out to $370.45 a square foot. Courtesy of Premier Sothebys.

SARASOTA REAL ESTATE UPDATE Members of the Michael Saunders’ Master Circle

RELATIONSHIPS

for life

Nine-Year Recipients of the

5541 Cape Aqua Dr. | Offered at $749,000 Three bedroom | Two bath | 2,357 SF

1723 Bay St. | Offered at $899,000 Four bedroom | Three bath | 2,237 SF

4822 Ocean Blvd. #11D | Offered at $850,000 Two bedroom | Two bath | 1,720 SF

6609 Peacock Rd. | Offered at $2,475,000 Five bedroom | Four and one-half bath | 4,938 SF

5855 Midnight Pass Rd #624 | Offered at $349,900 One bedroom | 1 bath | 751 SF

MAURICE MENAGER

TEAM DUNN LIN DUNN

REALTOR®

REALTOR®, SRES, LSS, LSE

941.238.8119

941.809.2154

5100 Ocean Blvd | Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.3444 | michaelsaunders.com

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941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Paradise Awaits... In d ay t l So e D lis On 99% at

195 Vista Hermosa Circle, #9-A Siesta Key, FL

Just a short walk to Siesta Beach. 2 BR, 2 BA villa. Ideal rental opportunity. Custom wood cabinets in the kitchen with granite counters & upgraded appliances. Bathrooms boast tumbled marble & granite. Custom lighting. New A/C in 2017 and recently installed water heater. Roof replaced in 2016. Sold turnkey furnished (with some exclusions).

5326 Calle Florida Siesta Key, FL Palm Island home one block to beach, built on two lots.

719,000

450,000

797 Beach Road, #305

322 Island Circle

Siesta Key, FL

Full Gulf view of #1 Beach in the USA. Completely remodeled, priced to sell! High end tile floors in main living area, quality custom kitchen cabinets, deisgner kitchen. Crescent Royale offers an onsite rental program, heated pool and much more!

499,900

Siesta Key, FL

Beaches, Boating & Bistros!! Live the island lifestyle in this spacious 4 BR, 4 BA house located on desirable Palm Island, grossing approx. $60k in rental income. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. New boat lift on the Grand Canal. Lounge in the heated pool and spa or enjoy your favorite libation at your own private Waterfront Tiki Bar. Huge bonus area on lower level.

899,000

Tropical Sands Dan D. Miller 941-376-7442 Licensed Real Estate Professional

ddm1@comcast.net

Service. Integrity. Results.

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

www.siestasand.net

Blooming This Month

BAMBOO (Bambusoideae)

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Bamboo has a bad reputation with gardeners. Some kinds of Bamboo spread aggressively, but there are some that do not. There are actually two groups of bamboos: runners and clumpers. Running bamboos don’t stay in one place, but clumping bamboos grow only a few inches wider each year. Clumping bamboo makes an excellent visual screen and sound barrier, all without endangering the neighborhood. South Floridians have a large and diverse group of bamboo to choose from, but some types thrive in North Florida as well. Plant your bamboo in full or part sun. Bamboo will tolerate a wide variety of soil types, but for best growth, water and fertilize yours on a regular schedule, and don’t forget to mulch. Bamboo is actually a fastgrowing grass not a tree as some call it. The speedy rate of growth makes it a popular resource for all sorts of items. Bamboo is used to create flooring, bed sheets, towels,

and other fabrics. Outside, you can create fencing, trellises, or even water features. If you’re in search of something unique that will add a special touch to your landscape - or a classy dash of style in your home, Black Bamboo will not disappoint. It’s easy to grow. Black Bamboo will grow as much as 10-12 feet a year- ultimately reaching 25 feet

in stature. It’s easy to tame, so you can trim it to the height you desire. Stop by the Sarasota Garden Club during the week from 9:00am to 1:00pm and check out the Black Bamboo in the Quite Garden, one of the 14 gardens at 1131 Blvd. of the Arts. Submitted by CJ Danna, Sarasota Garden Club. www.sarasotagardenclub.org

Island Chatter

• Windows • Doors • Glass • Repair 4384 Independence Court Sarasota, Florida 34234

(941) 953-2670 www.qswd.net

CGC 1505896 / CBC 1250402

Continued from page 29

The Village Holiday Parade which will begin at Avenida del Mare and Beach Road at 5:30 PM traveling north on Beach Road onto Ocean Blvd. into the Village. Many businesses and local groups will be participating in the parade and welcoming Santa to Siesta Village. If you would like to participate in the parade, visit www.siestakeychamber.com and click on the scrolling event banner at the top of the home page. There is a $25.00 fee per entry and registration is required. Santa will arrive at the Siesta Center at approximately 6:15 PM to greet all children. The first 250 children to see him will receive gift bags donated by Beach Bazaar. At Siesta Center, there will also be face painting and activities. Photos may be taken with Santa, free of charge. Shops and restaurants will offer refreshments and special holiday bargains from 5 to 9 PM. There will also be live music at various venues, plus carolers and a martial arts demonstration. Free public transportation is provided courtesy of the Siesta Breeze Trolley from Turtle Beach to the Village (with multiple stops along the route, including Siesta Beach) making it easier for all to participate in the festivities. This festive event is sponsored by merchants, businesses, and friends of Siesta Key and is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Chamber Office at 941-349-3800, email events@siestakeychamber.com or visit www.siestakeychamber.com.

Annual Holiday Lighting Contest The Siesta Key Condo Council gears up for the annual Traditional Holiday Lighting Contest. Judging will be held on Wednesday, December 12th at 6:00 p.m. Continued on the next page

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Island Chatter Condo Boards support Siesta Key with creative and attractive lighting every season. Please help with the continued beautification of the Key. Another factor this year is the local economy. Remember to support the local Siesta Key businesses.

A bit of biography When former Sarasota County Commissioner Jon Thaxton addressed members of the Siesta Key Association on Oct. 4, he said, “I’m one of the oddballs …” He is a fifth-generation Sarasotan, he explained. When he was a child, he continued, his family moved to the central part of the county. Osprey, he stressed, is not South County but in the center of the county, almost exactly in the middle, in fact. Then he asked if audience members were familiar with Roessler’s Restaurant, which is located at 2033 Vamo Way. Many were. “Roessler’s Restaurant was my childhood home,” Thaxton said. The bar is in what was his family room, he noted. People in the dining area, he said, are “in my living room.” When he was growing up, Thaxton continued, “All my friends’ fathers were commercial fishermen. … I spent a great deal of time on mullet skiffs.” Commercial fishing “was still a viable industry just that short time ago.” He also noted, “You never forget the dialogue around the fish house,” calling it “just very memorable.” Additionally, Thaxton pointed out that even when he was 12 or 13 — “maybe younger” — fishermen

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Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Continued from the previous page

would lament the changes they were observing on the land that they felt were producing negative impacts on the water. As he began his introduction to his topic that day, which was red tide, Thaxton referenced a time much longer ago than the period of his youth. The first recorded observations of red tide were written in 1575 by Spanish cartographer Juan Lopez de Velasco, Thaxton said. Velasco lived roughly between 1530 and 1598, according to an online check. Much more recent research had found a dinoflagellate “very closely related” to the red tide algae in the bones of cormorants and fish scales that were dated back 2 million years ago, to the Pleistocene Epoch. That information resulted from the excavation of an eastern Sarasota County site in 1989, Thaxton added.

letters to many members who did not renew online. “That cost us probably a thousand bucks,” Kusekoski said. SKA directors have pointed out that the nonprofit has had to pay more in recent years to rent the rooms where it holds its meetings at St. Boniface Episcopal Church. It also has had extensive legal bills, of course, as it has fought to prevent the dredging of Big Sarasota Pass. Referring to the latter situation, Vice President Catherine Luckner noted during the meeting that people have been sending in $40 contributions, as suggested on the SKA’s website, with the goal of raising $40,000 from 1,000 members. Contributions to the Siesta Key Environmental Defense Fund are tax-deductible, a companion SKA webpage reminds visitors.

SKA membership renewals encouraged now During the October Siesta Key Association (SKA) meeting, President Gene Kusekoski strongly encouraged those in the audience to renew their memberships before the end of the year and to encourage others they know to renew or join the nonprofit. The SKA has not raised its membership fee since 2012, he pointed out. At that time, the amount rose to $30. However, because “bills keep going up,” the organization will have to impose another $5 increase as of Jan. 1, he added. “We definitely need the funds to keep our lights on.” Last year, he continued, the directors paid for postage to send

And a farewell to Carolyn Brown on Oct. 10, Sarasota County

Administrator Jonathan Lewis and the County Commission bade a formal farewell to Carolyn Brown, director of the Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department (PRNR), who was retiring after 30.5 years with the county. Leaders of Siesta organizations and many Siesta residents have come to know Brown through her years of work with the beach and water accesses, as well as a variety of related projects. In late July, Brown submitted her letter of resignation to county staff. On Oct. 29, Brown officially will

become the director of support services for the Town of Longboat Key, Susan Phillips, assistant to the town manager. In years past, Phillips explained, the town had both an administrative services director and an assistant town manager. The position Brown is taking “takes care of some of that void,” Phillips pointed out. Brown will be overseeing human resources, the town’s procurement section and the Tennis Center, Phillips said. “We’re very excited to have her join us.” During Brown’s send-off from county government — which took place before a full Commission Chambers in downtown Sarasota on Oct. 10 — board Chair Nancy Detert pointed out, “I think we all want to live a life that matters …” Turning to Brown, Detert said, “Your fingerprints are everywhere in this community. … I’m sorry that you’re being stolen.” Detert then wished Brown “Good luck” in her new endeavor.

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

Serene and perfectly located at Sandy Cove By Roger Drouin

|The community won a top architectural award. Sandy Cove includes 112 condo units set amid lush tropical privacy, just steps from Siesta Village. There’s a mix of buildings — from townhouses and villas, to low-rise and mid-rise buildings — with a diversity of units, ranging from 650 to 2,500 square feet. The community is comprised of four sections, Sandy Cove I, Sandy Cove II, and Sandy Cove III, and Sandy Cove IV. Sandy Cove was built in the late 60s and early 70s, and has a special architectural pedigree. It is a unique waterfront community — part of Sarasota School of Architecture originally designed by Frank Folsom-Smith and located moments from Siesta Key Village with dining and shopping nearby. Smith won the FAAIA Honor Award for his design and development of the community. When it comes to Sandy Cove’s setting, “it has the best of both worlds,” says Tracey Fried, who has owned a unit in a mid-rise building for six years. Her unit was just recently listed on the market. “It is its own tropical paradise, beautiful and lush,” Fried says of Sandy Cove. “Yet you can walk right down to the Village. And you don’t have to fight all the traffic to go to the beach.” Just about everything is walking distance away, including Morton’s Siesta Market, restaurants, and bars, adds Fried, who moved to Siesta from New York City and has enjoyed living in such a walkable community here. The community is located just northwest of the Village, but is very quiet and serene, Fried adds. Fried’s unit is situated in Sandy Cove I — which has direct access to a private beach. The 632-square-foot, one-bedroom unit was recently listed, at $310,000. The light-and-bright unit features white kitchen cabinets and solid surface countertops, and all windows equipped with hurricane shutters. Residents at Sandy Cove enjoy breathtaking views, a private beach, easy access to Siesta Village, and a low-maintenance lifestyle, says Bob Ruiz, a realtor with Key Solutions Real Estate who has the unit listed for sale. Other amenities include a kayak launch and fishing pier. A good number of units have a water view, either of the Pass or Gulf of Mexico, or of a pond. Roughly half of the units have undergone renovation, says Ruiz. A big plus is that large dogs are allowed, Fried says. “It is one of the best communities for dog owners on the Key,” she says. “People love pets here. People walk their dogs around, become friends, and there are even rules where dogs can play on the beach at certain hours.”

Sandy Cove, Fried says, overall is a close-knit community of not only neighbors, but friends, who enjoy meeting down at the beach for sunsets. The property has a manmade lake in the middle, and is always perfectly maintained, Fried adds. From her unit, “you can literally walk out the door and have the private beach.” Turnover is low at Sand Cove, with only two recent sales over the past year. “No one ever wants to leave,” says Fried, who is very sad to leave the community where she has lived for the past six years, but is now searching for a single-family home where she can grow her family. Recent sales and listings • One recent sale was a one bedroom, one bath unit in Sandy Cove II. This 656 squarefoot unit, which sold for $255,000 in May, 2018, was updated. Upgrades included gourmet Ikea kitchen with stainless steel appliances, modern bathroom, laminate flooring in master bedroom and refinished ceilings throughout. The unit was marketed as a great seasonal getaway or yearround home. In a neat feature, the lanai has an opening with a small palm tree growing up. The sale came out to $389 a square foot. • Another unit, that sold recently for $710,000, was a large furnished three bedroom, three bath penthouse. At 1,885 square feet, this sale came out to $377 a square foot. The unit has a fireplace, water views, and storm impact windows and sliders. This unit, according to the MLS listing, was located in Sandy Cove IV. • There are also two current listings, including Fried’s unit. The unit has 632 square feet, and one bedroom and one bath. It is listed at $491 a square foot. The living/dining area opens to the deck overlooking scenic landscaped grounds. The kitchen includes white cabinets and appliances, as well as solid surface counter-tops and a closet pantry for great storage. The bedroom includes a large closet and en-suite bath. There is also extra closet space, which is unusual in a condo of this size. • A 998-square-foot, remodeled two bedroom, two bath unit is listed for $475,000, or $476 a square foot. This unit is also located in the midrise building. According to the MLS listing, the condo features new impact windows and sliders, new air conditioning, new bathrooms and new open kitchen design with new cabinets and quartz countertops including new appliances.

www.siestasand.net

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NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 2

SIESTA KEY 2019 SEASONAL BEACH RENTAL AVAILABLE (Minimum 1 month)

Contact Linda Stowe

Broker Associate, Michael Saunders & Co.

941-228-5685 3

1. Kelsey & Koedee from PA 2. Keith & Lindsey from IL 3. Sara & Tayler from Toronto, Canada 4. Samantha, Charlie, Corey, Silvania from Lakeland, FL

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

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Classifieds / Here’s My Card AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY

www.siestasand.net

HOUSE WATCH

COMPUTER SERVICES

BUY - SELL - TRADE - REPAIR Insured, Bonded and Licensed by The National Home Watch Association.

SAME QUALITY - BETTER VALUE Pre-Owned Mac® Computers iPhone® and iPad® Mobile Digital Device Repair Computer Upgrades - Memory, Batteries, More

• TD Aerial Photography – Aerial photography and video production for realtors, marketers, and business owners. Learn more about high resolution drone photos and Ultra 4K drone videos at tillerduncan.com or contact Tyler at 574.220.1231

4858 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota, FL 34231 941-922-7790 WE TAKE THE RISK OUT OF BUYING A USED COMPUTER!

(941) 961-4309

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House Watch Sarasota Licensed and Insured

Affordable and Dependable Service Solutions For Your Home While You Are Away

CONTRACTORS

ACCOMMODATIONS / VACATION RENTALS • Best Western Plus Siesta Key – AAA -3 Diamond Property, Free shuttle service to and from Siesta Key 941-924-4900, 6600 S. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota

R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc (941) 955-1864

Call or e-mail sarasotabruce1@housewatchsrq.com for quotes and references Serving SaraSota and Surrounding areaS Since 1979

housewatchsrq.com

• Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941-349-5500

JEWELRY

BEACH & BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS LANDINGS RESIDENT OWNED AND OPERATED

SARASOTA’S BEST BABY RENTAL CENTER SELF SERVICE NOW AVAILABLE Order online or by phone Available 24/7 CLEAN • SAFE • RELIABLE

• Hawk’s Nest Construction Inc. is a certified Class A general contractor licensed in all phases of construction. Owner, Mark Hawkins Sr. personally oversees every aspect of your project from start to finish, using only the best and most reliable licensed artisan and craftsmen. His passion is delighting his clients by turning their home-improvement dreams into a beautiful reality. Call 941-6509499 or visit their website: www.hawksnestconstruction.com

5700 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key www.abcbabyrental.com

New Look-

941-929-1850

BOATING RENTALS / FISHING CHARTERS

Having Fun Fishing in The Sun

Reasonable Prices! Shower & Bathtub Walls

LIGHTING

Cleaned - Regrouted - Caulked - Sealed

Shower & Bath Makeovers

• Custom Lampshades • Recovering • Lighting Components

Free Estimates Call John 941.377.2940

LIZ MARTIN

Sarasota resident since 1974

3519 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd. • Sarasota, FL 34234

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941-400-2452

Tony Fudoli Sr. CAPTAIN tntfreedomfishing@yahoo.com

Dolphin Watch • SunSetS • half Day aDventure SailS

Sailing From Marina Jack, Sarasota

Kathleen D Sailing Catamaran 941-896-6400

941.756.1082

Veteran Owned Business

• CB’s Saltwater Outfitters – CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is an ORVIS Endorsed Outfitter Fishing Charter Service serving Siesta Key as well as Longboat Key, Lido Key, Sarasota, and Venice. Our veteran guides offer exciting Fishing Adventures for anglers of all ages from novice to the expert. See our website: www.CBsOutfitters.com or stop in their store for additional info. 1240 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key. (941)349-4400.

www.KathleenD.net

Locally Owned and Operated

• Quality Screening, Window & Door Inc. Windows • Doors • Glass • Repair, 4384 Independence Court, Sarasota, 34234 (941) 953-2670. CGC 1505896 / CBC 1250402 • Wilson Windows is a State Certified General Contractor specializing in glass porch enclosures and window replacement. They offer only top quality products installed by professionally trained technicians. All projects are engineered and permitted to meet the new state building codes related to impact, water infiltration and high velocity windload calculations. Their services include window repair, new custom screens, glass cut to size, and hard to find window parts inventory at both locations. Fully insured and their work is guaranteed. 941-921-1113, www.wilson-window.com.

Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service

• WEDNESDAY CHURCH - Traditional worship every Wednesday at 6 PM. Committed to reaching 55+ Widows, Widowers, Veterans, Singles, and Adults. 7811 Kennedy Ln., Sarasota, FL 34240. Pastor Trebor Britt, 941320-4309. SJG5232@verizon.net

Free Pick Up & Delivery Service Call

from your home or business

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ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE

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We don’t cut corners, we dust them.

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GreenMagicCleaning@gmail.com Call for a FREE estimate today!

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MEDICAL

Dermatology Skin CanCer laSer, Botox anD Hair/nail DiSorDerS 1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

www.dermatologyexperts.com

J Morgan O’Donoghue, MD.

Amy Fenenga PA-C

Lorie Masters PA-C

941.926.7546

DRY CLEANERS

CHURCH SERVICES

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• Free Estimates • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Stain Specialists • Chamber of Commerce Members

Serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties

Fax 941-312-5683

www.lizslampshades.com Hours: Tues. - Sat. 10 AM- 6 PM

Carpet, Tile and Upholstery Cleaning

• Siesta Key Marina Located at 1265 Old Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key, has been serving Sarasota boaters and fishermen since 1961. A staple in the Sarasota boating community, offering 243 dry storage racks, a full service ship store, onsite boat service, boat rentals, bait, fuel, fishing tackle and more. 941-349-1970

Green Magic Cleaning Service

941-312-5183

www.qualitycountscleaning.com

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES

FITNESS

Custom FITNESS PLAN

HOUSE CALLS BY

Flexible Hours

Jared Caban BS, NASM, MS

MDFitSarasota.rehab

• Paradise Dermatology offers comprehensive dermatologic care including full body skin checks, medical dermatology care, Mohs skin cancer surgery, and cosmetic treatments. Sarasota office: 3355 Clark Road, Suite #101, 941-202-5524. www/paradisederm.com

MD Fit comes to you!

FREE CONSULT

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www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Classifieds HELENE M. HYLAND REALTOR®

(941) 685-2274 Cell (941) 349-4411 Office (800) 237-9403 Toll Free (941) 349-8090 Fax HeleneHyland@comcast.net

5145 Ocean Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34242 www.SheSellsSiestaKeySarasota.com

• Making things happen on Siesta Key with Real Estate agents Bob and Sheri Ruiz from Key Solutions Real Estate Group. If you are looking to buy or sell on the Key contact us. Bob Ruiz 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com, Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 SheriLasley@aol.com

RESTAURANTS

• SHORT WALK TO SIESTA BEACH: $450,000 195 Vista Hermosa Circle, #9-A, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4189942. Wonderfully remodeled 2 BR, 2 BA villa. Designer tile & carpet throughout. This villa is being sold turnkey furnished (with some exclusions). Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • FULL GULF VIEW OF #1 BEACH: $499,900 797 Beach Rd, #305, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4188853 Completely remodeled unit with high end tile floors in main living area, quality custom kitchen cabinets with granite counters. All the lighting has been upgraded throughout this TURNKEY FURNISHED (some artwork excluded) unit. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941376-7442 • PALM ISLAND HOME ON THE GRAND CANAL: $899,000. 322 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL.MLS# A4199085 Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. This house boasts a new boat lift on the Grand Canal. Privacy abounds with a lovely tropical view across the canal. Huge bonus area on lower level. Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

5 for $9 Lunch Specials Mon. - Fri. 11 am - 2 pm • SARA SANDS

Your Choice:

All entrees served with your choice of fries, baked beans or coleslaw.

• Cheeseburger • 10 Boneless Wings • Grilled Chicken Salad • Buffalo Chicken Sandwich,

941.923.4666

6507 S Tamiami Trl, Sarasota

(available grilled)

• Wraps:

(turkey bacon, buffalo shrimp or buffalo chicken)

SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY

Olde Fashion Barber Shop

Tapers • Flattops • Fades • Styling • Razor Cuts • Shaves

ther”

“Hot La

HOMES FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

Owned and Operated by NRT, LLC

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

941-312-6001

Southgate Barber Shop

(Across from the Westfield Siesta Key Mall)

2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239

Walk-Ins Welcome

Monday through Friday 9-6 • Saturday 9-2

www.OldStyleBarberShop.com

Open and split floorplan.Turnkey.Great community with resort-like amenities.MLS# A4410196, $725,000.Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. • DOLPHIN BAY - This is the one!Incredible views of the ICW and Bay.Ideal floor plan - split bedrooms, huge living/ dining area, 2 bedrooms each with en-suite bath, kitchen with large sitting area/den/office.Fabulous outdoor living - large screened lanai overlooking the water and 2 patios off the front of the unit. Space for a 3rd bedroom.Walk to Siesta Beach and Village.MLS# A4415040, $699,000.Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. • SANDY COVE - Adorable one bedroom one bath unit in highly desirable Sandy Cove community. Easy walk to fun, eclectic Siesta Village and world-renowned Siesta Beach.Private beach, fishing pier, kayaks, clubhouse. MLS#A4416061 $310,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. • TRULY FABULOUS 2/2 WITH PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS. Completely renovated TOP FLOOR END UNIT with exquisite finishes and furnishings the unit is being sold, turnkey. The open floor plan with SOARING CEILINGS features a huge living room with views of the ICW and Bay. This is truly a must-see. 6285 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #307, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS#A4410196, $725,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255.

3/2 remodeled and furnished ranch home at the north end of Siesta Key.Easy bike to the Village and Beach. Outdoor living at its best.- located at the end of a canal with a great water view, dock with lift, tiki hut, beautiful pool, outdoor fireplace, huge screened lanai, RV parking! If you enjoy entertaining, this is the one! $1,199,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or • ENJOY STUNNING SUNRISES AND SUNSETS from this lovely two bedroom, two bath PENTHOUSE Sheri: 941-400-4186. condo at the southernmost end of Siesta Key. If you • THE POINTE seek incomparable views look no further - wake to awe Penthouse 1/1 at the southernmost end of Siesta Key. inspiring sunrises over Neville Preserve on Little Sarasota Incredible 270 degree views of the Gulf and Bay.Large lanai. Bay and marvel at the spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Plentiful storage in the unit and on the first floor.Convenient Mexico.9393 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #P2, SARASOTA, FL underbuilding parking.Gated community with boat docks, 34242, MLS# A4406101, $569,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, kayak racks and dock, tennis, pool, spa, sauna, beautiful 941- 894-1255. clubhouse, island gazebo with grilling, and more.MLS# A4401699, $349,999. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri • GORGEOUS WATER VIEWS Deeded BOAT SLIP (boat up to 45’ length) come with & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. this TURNKEY FURNISHED 3/3 townhouse that shows • THE POINTE like a model home. This rarely available unit features TWO Renovated 2/2 penthouse with magnificent views. North FULL MASTER SUITES, loft/media area, and oversized to downtown Sarasota and South to Casey Key.See beautiful guest bedroom the list goes on. 1215 DOCKSIDE PL, #204, Neville Preserve and Little Sarasota Bay to the East and the SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS#A4215997, $899,000, Key Gulf of Mexico with Siesta’s amazing sunsets to the West. Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255. Penthouse unit.Sold furnished.MLS# A4406101, $569,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: • OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS BEST! This incredible 3 bed 2 bath property includes an 800 sq.ft. 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. covered and screened lanai with gas fire pit, 75” television • EXCELSIOR - Fabulous 2/2 penthouse end unit with and top of the line furnishings to seat 25+!! A heated pool Bay views and private beach access!Totally renovated to and hot tub/spa is perfect for the sunbather. Located at the include exquisite fixtures and furnishings.Soaring ceilings. end of a scenic canal, this home includes a boat dock with 20k lift, 2 jet ski lifts, and tiki hut. Sold completely furnished, you really must see this property!654 SANDY NOOK ST, TRANSPORTATION SARASOTA, FL 34242 MLS#A4415047, $1,199,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255.

Sarasota’s Premier “Chauffeur”

Airport Rides

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

Emergency (General).................................................911 $ Emergency Animal Clinic........................ 941-929-1818 % 30 ANY SERVICE! Fishing & Hunting Licenses.................... 941-362-9888 941.735.4732 Great service...great prices! FPL – Florida Power & Light................... 941-917-0708 Nails All Ports In Florida Sanitation first! FPL – Outage Report............................. 1-800-468-8243 We care about your well-being! Stress Free • Smooth and Easy $ $ Marriage License Bureau......................... 941-362-4066 Call for an Appointment Regular Manicure 15 Pedicure 25 Ask for Eddie Try our DELUXE PEDICURE 941-952-3301 Poison Info Center................................. 1-800-282-3171 for an awesome experience! • Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free Sarasota / Bradenton Intl. Airport......... 941-359-2770 Hours: 9 AM - 7 PM Mon. - Sat. YOU DESERVE IT! Closed Sunday service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. Gift Certificates Available - Walk-ins Welcome Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT)... 941-316-1234 Driver tips only. Call 941-928-9200. 7119 S. Tamiami Tr., Sarasota, FL 34231 • Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce......... 941-349-3800 (Buccaneer Plaza across from Lincoln Dealership) or taxi. Call 941-735-4732 Sheriff / non-emergency......................... 941- 861-1601 Waste Management.................................. 941-924-1254

Summer 10

Starting At Only

OFF

SENIOR SERVICES

941-928-9200

MarinerWord Search Answers to the WORD SEARCH found on page 33 www.TheMariner.com

RIDE THE KEY FREE

• A Bridge for Independence provides in-home companion services including companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, medication reminders, and meal preparation and planning. Call us at 941-925-2433, FL License #230517

SPORTS RENTALS / ACCESSORIES • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242 • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242

15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic) Answers

from Page 18 SERVICING

Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach

DRIVER TIPS ONLY

Yachting Capital of Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AMthe to 2AMWorld Daily www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com

Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town

• Siesta Key Bike & Kayak – Located on Siesta Key in Capt Curts Village serving Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Sarasota. We offer bikes, kayak rentals, kayak eco tours, paddleboards and scooters. 1224 Old Sickney Pt Rd. 941-346-0891 • Siesta Sports Rentals – Located on Siesta Key, bike, kayak, kayak tours, scooter, children strollers and car seats. Delivery and pickup available, 6551 Midnight Pass Rd, 941-346-1797

Photos courtesy of MIASF

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

941.349.0194

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2018 East End Volleyball Event at Siesta Key Beach By Jaye Clements / Sarasota Photography

Hundreds gathered on Oct 20th & 21st for the East End Volleyball event. Many spectators enjoyed our #1 beach, while men, women, and kids competed for top spots. Rich Heiles, organizer since 1977, said he has enjoyed coming to Siesta Key beach for over 20 years for this twice a year event. This year’s competition brought many athletes from Florida and a

few from out of state. I was impressed with their skills and sportsmanship! What a great tournament! If you missed it, here are a few photos. For a list of the winners and lots more pics, please go to our online edition at: siestasand.net. Click the Event Gallery located under the Arts & Entertainment tab.

Looking for Siesta Sand off-island? Pick up a copy at the following locations:

4&20 Patsy Co........................................................................... 5638 Swift Rd. A’s Sandwich............................................................... 6300 S. Tamiami Trail Abel’s Ice Cream: Southbridge Plaza........................1886 Stickney Pt. Rd. Alpine Steak House.................................................... 4520 S. Tamiami Trail Best Western Plus........................................................ 6600 S. Tamiami Trail Casey Key Fish House.................................... 801 Blackburn Point, Osprey Corkscrew Deli: Landings Shopping Plaza * ....... 4982 S. Tamiami Trail Culver’s......................................................................... 7520 S. Tamiami Trail Dutch Valley Restaurant........................................... 6721 S. Tamiami Trail Eager Beaver Carwash *............................................. 6449 S. Tamiami Trail Economy Tackle *........................................................ 6018 S. Tamiami Trail Fresh Catch Market & Grill: Buccaneer Plaza....... 7119 S. Tamiami Trail Gecko’s Restaurant..................................................... 6606 S. Tamiami Trail Grasshopper Mexican Restaurant & Bar................ 7253 S. Tamiami Trail Hibiscus Suites......................................................... 1735 Stickney Point Rd. Hooters........................................................................... 6507 S Tamiami Trail Philadelphia Cheesesteaks........................................ 7523 S. Tamiami Trail Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar........................................ 5353 S. Tamiami Trail Plaza Mexico Restaurant: Southbridge Plaza..... 1894 Stickney Point Rd. Pride of the South Restaurant/GG................................6616 Superior Ave. Rico’s Pizzeria & Pasta House..................................................1902 Bay Rd. Sarasota Brewing /GG.................................................... 6607 Gateway Ave. Solorzano’s Pizza /GG.....................................................6670 Superior Ave. Special Nutrition Store: Southbridge Plaza.............1882 Stickney Pt. Rd. The Oaks BBQ............................................................. 6112 S. Tamiami Trail The Shop SRQ/GG......................................................... 6625 Gateway Ave. The Table Creekside................................................... 5365 S. Tamiami Trail Tony’s Chicago Dogs/GG...............................................6569 Superior Ave. Word of Mouth/GG........................................................ 6604 Gateway Ave. Interested in Distributing our Publication? Call 941-349-0194 NOTE: * Denotes availability first week of each month only.

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P.O. BOX 35086, SIESTA KEY, FL 34242 www.siestasand.net

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941.349.0194

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Photo of the action from the 2018 East End Volleyball Event on Siesta Key

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2018

Island Girl

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SARA This monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Island Girl is Sara of Jupiter. We captured her playing volleyball at a recent Dig the Beach Tournament on spectacular Siesta Beach. Competing in the Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open Pro Division, she also plays for Florida State University where she is studying nutrition and dietetics. Fitness is very important to this college student who said one of her favorite hobbies is, napping. If you would like to be considered for our next Island Girl, contact us at islandvp@verizon.net (You must be at least 18 years old to participate)